The prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors among women of central parts of Iran: Isfahan Healthy Heart Programme

¯Abstract Background: Among the leading causes of mortality in women is the cardiovascular disease (CVD) and the control of CVD risk factors prevents CVD and the associated mortality. Objective: To determine the prevalence of CVD risk factors in women of central part of Iran. Methods: This descriptive cross sectional study was performed on 6391 women in three cities located in central parts of Iran (Isfahan, Najaf-Abad and Arak). The subjects were 20 years old or above. Demographic data and blood samples for glucose and lipid measurements were collected. Determination of blood pressure for three consecutive periods and also weight and height were performed for each subject. Findings: Hypertriglyceridemia, smoking and overweight were more prevalent in urban areas while hypertension, high LDL-C and hypercholesterolemia more prevalent in rural parts. Hypercholesterolemia, high LDL-C and diabetes increased with aging. Conclusion: Based on our results, the prevalence of risk factors was high among the study group. More education and also recommendations on changing of women lifestyle are suggested.