The levels of the major risk indicators of cardiovascular diseases in Eastern Finland rior to a community-based intervention programme. (The North Karelia project).

The design, implementation and the major results of a study for measuring the prevalent CHD risk indicators in Eastern Finland are presented. The study formed the baseline survey of the North Karelia Project and was conducted in 1972 for a representative random sample of the population aged 25-59 in the county of North Karelia and a matched reference area. Altogether 11.992 persons were examined with a participation rate of 93% in North Karelia and 90% in the reference area. The prevalence rates of the "hard" CHD risk indicators (blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking and triglycerides) are presented and reference is made to the prevalence rates of some other "softer" risk indicators. In general, the level of the "hard" risk indicators is high and this is especially true for the younger males. The two areas resemble each other closely in these respects as was anticipated. In the discussion the results are reviewed from the point of view of the primary preventive programme.