[The correlation between lifestyle and lipid profile].

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to estimate if negative lifestyle habits such as alcohol consumption, smoking and physical inactivity affect the lipid profile values.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 250 workers on regular examination in the Gradiska Health Center in the period from 2001 to 2002. There were 113 (45.2%) men and 137 (54.8%) women. The examinees were divided into three groups according age (25-39, 40-49 and 50-60 respectively). Standard laboratory methods were used to establish the following: total cholesterol, triglyceride and HDL-cholesterol level, LDL cholesterol, atherosclerosis index (AI) and total cholesterol/HDL cholesterol.

RESULTS

Using a questionnaire, we have found out that out of 250 examinees 48.80% consume alcohol regularly, 50.80% are smokers and 36% are physically. The mean total cholesterol was high in all groups and it was 6.41 mmol/l. The mean triglyceride level was 1.88 mmol/l and mean HDL cholesterol was 1.48 mmol/l, IA was 2.99 and total cholesterol/HDL cholesterol ratio was 4.69. Statistical analysis showed that there was a statistically significant relationship between triglyceride values and alcohol consumption, smoking and physical activity (p<0.05). Also, we showed that there was a statistically high relationship between HDL cholesterol values, AJ, total cholesterol/HDL cholesterol and smoking in the examined groups (p<0.01).

DISCUSSION

In our study the lipid profile parameters were above the desired levels, probably due to unhealthy lifestyle, including smoking, alcohol consumption and insufficient physical activity. Our results are in concordance with the results of similar studies.

CONCLUSION

It is of utmost importance to take steps to improve lifestyle habits of our population.