Awareness and Knowledge of Cardiovascular Risk Through Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Testing in College Freshmen

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States, yet knowledge of CVD risk factors is surprisingly low in college students. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of an individualized blood pressure, cholesterol, and CVD education intervention on college freshmen. Methods: Twenty-five college freshmen (mean age 18.3 ± 0.4 years) completed the study. Participants underwent blood pressure and blood cholesterol screening and completed 3 questionnaires (BLOCK Fat Dietary Screener, Paffenbarger Physical Activity Questionnaire, and Heart Disease Knowledge Questionnaire [HDKQ]). Feedback reports containing participants' cholesterol and blood pressure data with normative guidelines and physical activity and heart-healthy diet pamphlets were distributed at a one-on-one 15-minute feedback session. Approximately 2 months after receiving this information, all 3 questionnaires were repeated. Results: Participants improved their HDKQ scores (15.35 ± 5.0 vs. 19.68 ± 4.1, P < .05) but did not change dietary scores (33.6 ± 10.8 vs. 31.5 ± 7.8) or physical activity (2117 ± 1978 vs. 2290 ± 1924 kcal/week). Translation to Health Education Practice: A short blood pressure and cholesterol report and one-on-one meeting improved knowledge of CVD risk in college students without affecting diet and exercise habits.