Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) Risk

Should We Target College Women?

Abstract

Recent changes by the American Heart Association identify screening guidelines for CVD risk factors for those in their early twenties. Research on CVD has focused on adult populations 40 and over. If risk is identified at an earlier age, then preventative behaviors can be established to prevent the onset and prevalence of CVD. This study was conducted to identify college students’ awareness of early screening for and knowledge of CVD risk factors. Specifically, this study examined differences between men, women, and risk perception. Participants were 403 college students (male = 137; female = 266) between the ages of 18 and 25 that completed a questionnaire measuring knowledge and awareness of CVD risk. Results showed that college students had limited knowledge of CVD risk, specifically signs and symptoms. A majority of the participants identified awareness of early screening guidelines. Women rated cancer as the leading cause of death more frequently than men did. Further results indicated men continue to be more knowledgeable and aware of CVD risk. Practitioners and health educators need to use existing literature and new CVD guidelines in the United States to develop prevention programs and strategies. Prevention strategies and education should be specifically targeted toward young women and adults.