Obesity and Other Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Egyptian University Students: Magnitude of the Problem

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular risk factors can lead to excessive morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular events. Metabolic syndrome in young adults is considered a predictor of increased cardiovascular risk in adulthood. Obesity in specific is rising among adolescents and young adults worldwide including populations living in developing countries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of obesity and other cardiovascular risk factors in a group of university students representing large sector of young adults in Egypt. Methods: This is a cross-sectional observational study on 2895 students from 10 public universities in 10 Egyptian governorates that represent different geographic areas in Egypt. Students were recruited for selfadministered questionnaire, anthropometric and blood pressure measurements as well as laboratory analyses for random blood sugar and total cholesterol level. Results: The majority of students were non-smokers, and the minority performed regular physical exercise.Obesity was encountered in 10.7% of participants, while abdominal obesity was shown in 43.4%. Abdominal obesity was more prevalent in South Upper Egypt female students. 2% of students were shown to be hypertensive and 15% were pre-hypertensive. Conclusion: Pre-hypertension and Obesity, particularly the abdominal type was prevalent in Egyptian adolescents and young adults.