Frequency of Cardiovascular Risk Factors among the Athletes and Non-Athletes

JRCRS. 2018; 6(2): 71-75

Abstract

Background: Proper screening of the Cardiovascular risk factors is not a common practice in Pakistan, until the development of signs and symptoms, which is a concerning factor regarding the cardiovascular implications on athletes and other individuals.

Objective of study: To determine the frequency of cardiovascular risk factors among athletes and non-athletes.

Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted on 417 individuals (n=189 athletes and n=228 non-athletes), aged 15-30 years, recruited from fitness centres of twin cities (Rawalpindi-Islamabad), over a duration of 6 months (January 2016 to June 2016). Sample was selected on the basis of inclusion criteria and non.-probability convenient sampling was employed. A self-structured questionnaire was filled by all the participants to assess the presence of cardiovascular risk factors.

Result: Out of a sample of 417 individuals, 189 were athletes and 228 were non-athletes with a mean age of 23.7 ± 3.22. Frequency of the risk factor hypertension was found to be higher in non-athletes (5.8%) as compared to athletes (0.7%). Smoking was equally present in both athletes 32 (7.7%) and non-athletes 40 (9.6%). Hypertension and cholesterol which showed significant difference with p value < 0.001. Obesity and psychological risk factors depicted low significant difference with the p value <0.05 i.e. (0.023 and 0.027) respectively, whereas the other risk factors smoking and diabetes showed no significant difference.

Conclusion: It was found that the proportion of individuals to have cardiovascular risk factors was higher in the non-athletes as compared to athletes. Also hypertension, cholesterol, obesity and psychological risk factors were significantly associated with non-athletes.

Keywords: Heart, Risk Factors, Athletes, Non-Athletes, Physical Activity