Cardiovascular Risk Factors at the Popular University of Chontalpa: Prevalence and Prevention Strategies

Introduction: A cardiovascular risk factor (CVRF) is a biological characteristic or lifestyle that increases the probability of suffering or dying from a cardiovascular disease (CVD) in those individuals who present it. Our objective is to determine the cardiovascular risk factors in the university community of the Popular University of Chontalpa. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study of a non-probabilistic sample of 166 people. Each participant signed the informed consent and answered a semi-structured survey, which included personal and family pathological history, anthropometric measurements, etc. We also took blood pressure and collected a blood sample for blood chemistry analysis. Results: 59% of the sample was female and 41% male, between 18 and 64 years old. According to the ICC, 32.5% of the population studied has a very high risk, and 21% has a high risk. 62% have a family history. 32.15% were considered to have adequate nutrition; 45.2% consume alcoholic beverages, and 23.8% smoke. 31.91% had hyperglycemia, 38.61% had high triglycerides, and 12.8% had high cholesterol. Only 3.06% exhibited a high risk for HDL-c and 5.10% for LDL-c. Conclusions: The most relevant modifiable CVRFs in the UPCH are age, sex, triglycerides, physical activity, and diet. Develop strategies for reducing these, such as responsible self-care, which translates into a healthy diet and regular physical exercise.