Hyperlipidemia risk factors among middle-aged population in the United States

Hyperlipidemia, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, disproportionately affects racial and ethnic minority populations. This cross-sectional study examined the prevalence and risk factors for hyperlipidemia among middle-aged adults in the United States using data from the fifth wave of the Adolescent to Adult Health Study (Add Health). The study analyzed merged sociodemographic and biomarker data (N = 4,196) using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression. The mean age was 37.14 years (SD = ±1.99), with a slightly higher proportion of males (50.38%). The overall prevalence of hyperlipidemia was 16.26%, with higher rates observed in males (20.1%) compared to females. Notably, Asian individuals had significantly higher odds of hyperlipidemia (OR = 2.70, 95% CI: 1.28-5.65), whereas Black/African Americans had a significantly lower risk (OR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.34-0.94) compared to Whites. Chronic health conditions, including hypertension (OR = 2.46, 95% CI: 1.72-3.52) and diabetes (OR = 4.95, 95% CI: 3.08-7.97), were strong predictors of hyperlipidemia. Additionally, individuals with higher income levels had increased odds of hyperlipidemia (OR = 1.10, 95% CI: 1.01-1.19). Contrary to prior research, obesity was not significantly associated with hyperlipidemia risk. Physical activity was marginally protective, though the effect lost significance in the adjusted model. These findings highlight the importance of targeted cardiovascular health interventions, particularly for Asian populations and those with chronic conditions, to reduce disparities in hyperlipidemia and improve public health outcomes.