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Correlates of serum lipids in a lean black population
C H Bunker1, F A Ukoli, F I Okoro
1Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA. bunkerct@pitt.edu
Atherosclerosis
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Higher socioeconomic status (SES) in Nigeria is linked to Westernized lifestyles, increasing the risk of coronary heart disease. This study found higher LDL-cholesterol in higher SES individuals, independent of BMI, despite a generally lean population and low-fat diet.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Epidemiology
- Metabolic Syndrome
- Public Health
Background:
- Urbanization and Westernized lifestyles in developing nations are associated with increased coronary heart disease (CHD) risk.
- Historically, populations in developing countries have had a low risk for CHD.
- Socioeconomic status (SES) may influence lifestyle choices and health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES), lifestyle factors, and serum lipid profiles in Nigerian civil servants.
- To determine if higher SES is associated with a more atherogenic lipid profile.
- To assess the independent contributions of SES and body mass index (BMI) to cholesterol levels.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 1407 Nigerian civil servants aged 25-54 years.
- Analysis of serum lipids, body mass index (BMI), diet, and physical activity levels.
- Multiple regression analysis to identify predictors of cholesterol levels.
Main Results:
- Higher SES males and females exhibited more atherogenic lipid profiles compared to lower SES individuals (e.g., higher LDL-cholesterol).
- BMI was a strong predictor of lipids, but this relationship was absent in the leanest half of the population.
- SES and BMI were independent predictors of cholesterol.
- Higher SES individuals had lower physical activity and slightly higher intake of meat, milk, and eggs, suggesting some dietary Westernization.
Conclusions:
- Socioeconomic status-related lifestyle changes contribute to significantly higher total and LDL-cholesterol levels.
- These effects are observed even in a generally lean population consuming a low-fat diet.
- Public health strategies should consider SES-driven lifestyle modifications in the context of cardiovascular disease prevention.