Prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in relation to socio-demographic profile of the life course study in cardiovascular disease epidemiology study (LIFECARE) Philippine cohort

Abstract

Objective. To describe the distribution of the clinical cardiovascular risk profile of the LIFECARE Philippine cohort in relation to its socio-demographic factors. Methods. We recruited a total of 3,072 apparently healthy participants from Manila and nearby provinces of Rizal, Batangas, Bulacan and Quezon. Face-to-face interview was done to obtain socio-demographic data. Baseline clinical parameters and biochemical tests were obtained. Prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors was determined by sex, place of residence, level of education and employment. Results. Overall prevalence of diabetes mellitus was at 5%, similar between sexes, area class, educational attainment and employment status. More smokers were male, employed or with an elementary level of education. Prevalence of hypertension was at 14.5% and was seen more in males, urban dwellers, employed or with an elementary level of education. Dyslipidemia was seen more in males, living in the rural areas, employed or with a college level of education. Lastly, obese participants were seen more in females, living in urban areas, employed or with a college level of education. Conclusion. Older, male and employed participants who are living in the urban areas have more cardiovascular riskfactors.