Assessment of cardiovascular risk factors among university of belize students
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Assessment of cardiovascular risk factors among university of belize students
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Danladi Chiroma Husaini, Diomar Salazar, Roberta Thimbriel, Innocent Ejiofor Nwachukwu and Augustine 'Dele Domingo
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Assessment of cardiovascular risk factors among university of belize students
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20166-6420
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, including in Belize, where hypertension and type 2 diabetes are prominent health concerns. Despite the prevalence of these conditions in the general population, there has been a lack of comprehensive data assessing cardiovascular risks specifically among college students in Belize. This study aims to address this gap by evaluating various risk factors for CVD among undergraduate students at the University of Belize, providing baseline data for future research on metabolic and cardiovascular disorders within this demographic.
Risk Factors in College Students
A significant aspect of the study revolves around identifying modifiable risk factors for CVD among students, including lifestyle choices such as diet, physical activity, and substance use. The research found that a majority of the participants reported healthy eating habits (63.16%) and physical activity (76.32%), while none admitted to smoking. Although some individuals demonstrated risk factors like elevated blood pressure and triglycerides, the overall findings suggested that the majority of students exhibited low risk for developing cardiovascular diseases.
Biochemical Assessments
The biochemical assessment of the students revealed notable findings regarding key cardiovascular risk markers. On average, participants had a systolic blood pressure (SBP) of 116.74 mmHg, with 39.47% showing SBP � 120mmHg, indicating potential pre-hypertension. Additionally, the mean total cholesterol level was found to be 140.89 mg/dL, well within the normal range, whereas triglyceride levels were notably higher in males (175.85 mg/dL) compared to females (83.17 mg/dL). These results highlight important metabolic indicators that could contribute to future cardiovascular risk if left unmonitored.
Familial History and Future Risks
Familial history emerged as a crucial factor, with 64% of students reporting a family history of cardiovascular diseases. This information is particularly vital as it suggests that those with familial predispositions, even if currently presenting few outward risk factors, could be at an elevated risk for developing CVD in the future. The correlation between family history and personal health behaviors indicates the importance of thorough screening and health education to mitigate future cardiovascular risks among these students.
Conclusion
In summary, while this preliminary study indicated that most college students at the University of Belize exhibit low cardiovascular risk factors, there remains a clear need for ongoing surveillance and preventative measures. The findings underscore the importance of healthy lifestyle practices and the influence of familial health history on individual risk profiles. Future research with larger sample sizes is recommended to better understand the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in this population and to inform effective health interventions aimed at reducing CVD among young adults in Belize.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the purpose of the study conducted among University of Belize students?
The study aimed to assess cardiovascular disease risk factors among University of Belize students, providing baseline data for future comprehensive studies on metabolic and cardiovascular disorders among the college population in Belize.
What are the primary cardiovascular risk factors assessed in this study?
The study assessed various risk factors including body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and family history of cardiovascular diseases among the participants.
How many students participated in the study and what was their age range?
A total of 38 registered undergraduate students aged between 17 and 30 volunteered for the study.
What percentage of students reported a family history of cardiovascular diseases?
64% of the participants reported having a family history of cardiovascular diseases.
What were the findings related to blood pressure among the students?
The mean systolic blood pressure was 116.74 mmHg, with 39.47% having SBP � 120 mmHg, indicating some students were at risk of hypertension.
What was the conclusion of the study regarding students' cardiovascular risk?
Although some students exhibited risk factors for cardiovascular disease, the majority showed low risk overall, highlighting the need for further studies to monitor and manage potential risks.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Assessment of cardiovascular risk factors among university of belize students�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Study (Studying):
The study aims to evaluate cardiovascular risk factors among college students in Belize, addressing a gap in research related to this population. It serves as a pilot baseline for larger investigations, highlighting the importance of understanding health trends and behaviors in young adults, which can inform health promotion strategies.
2) Disease:
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of mortality globally. The study measures the prevalence and risk factors associated with CVD among University of Belize students, emphasizing the significant impact of non-communicable diseases. Understanding disease patterns helps in developing preventive measures tailored for young adults.
3) Blood:
Blood measurements, including pressure and biochemical markers, are crucial for assessing cardiovascular health. The study evaluates systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose to identify potential risks for developing cardiovascular diseases among students, thus informing future health interventions.
4) Developing:
Developing, in this context, refers to the potential onset of cardiovascular diseases in young adults. The study emphasizes early identification of risk factors to prevent the progression of cardiovascular issues. It highlights the need for lifestyle modifications among college students to mitigate future health risks.
5) Male:
The study includes male participants to compare gender differences in cardiovascular risk factors. Results indicate that male students exhibited higher levels of triglycerides and blood pressure compared to female counterparts. Understanding these differences is essential for tailoring health interventions and promoting cardiovascular health among different genders.
6) Measurement:
Measurement techniques are vital for collecting accurate data in this study. This includes blood pressure readings and biochemical markers. Standardized procedures ensure that the findings are reliable and can inform future health guidelines for college students, enhancing the understanding of cardiovascular risk factors.
7) Table:
Data tables summarize and present key findings of the research, such as anthropometric and biochemical descriptions of participants. They allow for quick reference and comparison of health indicators between genders, aiding in the interpretation of results and supporting the conclusions drawn from the study.
8) Diet:
Diet plays a significant role in cardiovascular health, with the study noting that 63.16% of students reported healthy eating habits. Monitoring dietary intake can provide insights into their long-term health and highlight the importance of nutrition for preventing cardiovascular diseases among college students.
9) Activity:
Physical activity is a critical factor influencing cardiovascular health. The study found that 76.32% of participants engaged in regular exercise, indicating a potentially protective behavior against heart disease. Promoting physical activity is essential for enhancing overall health and reducing disease risk in young adults.
10) Science (Scientific):
The study exemplifies the application of scientific methods in health research, incorporating systematic data collection and analysis to assess cardiovascular risks. By combining disciplines like pharmacology and public health, it advances understanding of preventive health care among college students and informs future research.
11) Pharmacology:
Pharmacology is relevant in this context as it studies drug interactions and effects on health. Understanding medications related to managing cardiovascular risk factors is crucial for the participants, especially those presenting with elevated blood pressure or abnormal lipid profiles who may require therapeutic interventions.
12) Teaching:
Teaching represents the educational aspect of health awareness and prevention strategies highlighted in the study. The findings can be utilized for educational purposes within the university setting, promoting awareness around cardiovascular health and influencing healthier lifestyle choices among students.
13) Family:
Family history of cardiovascular diseases is a significant risk factor identified in the study. With 64% of participants reporting familial ties to CVD, understanding genetic predispositions can help in assessing personal risk and implementing proactive health measures within the student population.
14) Campus:
The university campus serves as the setting for this research, providing a unique opportunity to evaluate health behaviors in young adults. It highlights the importance of addressing health risks within academic environments to foster a culture of wellness and disease prevention among students.
15) Announcement:
Announcements facilitated recruitment for the study, ensuring a diverse participant selection. This method of engagement helps raise awareness about health issues while encouraging students to participate in research that addresses their health and wellbeing, fostering a collaborative academic atmosphere.
16) Discussion:
The discussion section of the study analyzes results in the context of existing literature on cardiovascular risks, interpreting findings and suggesting implications for future research and health interventions. It encourages critical thinking about health behaviors prevalent in college populations.
17) Knowledge:
Knowledge related to cardiovascular health is essential for students to make informed lifestyle choices. The study aims to enhance awareness about risk factors for CVD, helping students understand their health status and promoting proactive engagement in health maintenance strategies.
18) Education:
Education about cardiovascular risk factors and healthy living is emphasized throughout the study. By raising awareness among college students, the research aims to foster healthier behaviors that may lead to a reduction in cardiovascular diseases, ultimately increasing overall health literacy among young adults.
19) Stiffness:
Stiffness in blood arteries contributes to cardiovascular disease risk. Although the study does not directly measure stiffness, understanding its implications in cardiovascular health is crucial for recognizing the effects of lifestyle and dietary habits on arterial function, which is important for disease prevention.
20) Meeting:
Meeting refers to aligning study objectives with health promotion goals. By gathering data on cardiovascular risk factors, the research aims to foster a meeting between academic insights and practical health strategies, bridging the gap between research findings and real-world health improvements for college students.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Assessment of cardiovascular risk factors among university of belize students�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
College student, Body mass index, Systolic blood pressure, Total cholesterol, Cardiovascular disease, Metabolic disorder, Triglycerides level, Cardiovascular risk factor, Family history of CVD, Physical activity engagement, Standardized protocol, Preventative measure.