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[Distribution of plasma cholesterol in 4 Swiss cities]
Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift. Supplementum
|January 1, 1981
Summary
In Switzerland, 7.4% of men and 8.4% of women aged 16-69 have high plasma cholesterol (>280 mg/dl). Body mass index and alcohol consumption are linked to cholesterol levels.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Disease Prevention
- Public Health Research
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Cardiovascular diseases are a major public health concern.
- Understanding plasma cholesterol distribution is crucial for prevention strategies.
- The Swiss National Research Programme initiated studies on primary prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine plasma cholesterol levels in a large adult population in Switzerland.
- To analyze the distribution of plasma cholesterol by age, sex, and nationality.
- To investigate associations between plasma cholesterol and lifestyle factors.
Main Methods:
- Plasma cholesterol was measured in 7947 adults across four Swiss cities.
- Data were analyzed for age, sex, nationality, and lifestyle factors (tobacco, alcohol, BMI).
- Percentile graphs were used to illustrate cholesterol distribution and age-related influences.
Main Results:
- Estimated 7.4% of men and 8.4% of women (16-69 years) exceed 280 mg/dl plasma cholesterol.
- A significant positive correlation was found between body mass index and plasma cholesterol (r=0.2, p<0.001).
- Alcohol consumption showed a direct association with total blood cholesterol levels.
Conclusions:
- A notable percentage of the Swiss adult population exhibits elevated plasma cholesterol.
- Body mass index and alcohol consumption are significant lifestyle factors associated with plasma cholesterol.
- Findings inform targeted interventions for cardiovascular disease primary prevention in Switzerland.