Scholarly Article
Prevalence and Correlates of Cardiovascular Risk Factors Among University Students in Libya: A Cross-Sectional Study
Enas Abdalla, Amal Al-Tir, Mohamed Al-Maqrahi, Mahmoud Qazima, Jassim Jalil
2026-03-05 · Attahadi Medical Journal · Attahadi University
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of global mortality, with modifiable lifestyle factors contributing significantly. University students represent a critical demographic for early intervention. This study assessed the prevalence of CVD risk factors among students at Attahadi University, Libya. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 with 330 undergraduate students (mean age 22.7 ± 4.1 years). Data were collected via a validated Arabic questionnaire and clinical measurements (BMI, blood pressure). Lifestyle factors (diet, physical activity, smoking, stress) were analyzed for associations with health indicators. The study found 89% of students consumed fast food weekly, while only 11.5% met fruit/vegetable recommendations. Physical inactivity affected 48%, and smoking prevalence was 20.6% (48.3% males vs. 3.5% females). Overweight/obesity affected 44% (95% CI: 38.6-49.4) and elevated blood pressure affected 25% (95% CI: 20.4-29.6). Stress correlated with higher BMI (r = +0.18, 95% CI: 0.07-0.28, p = 0.002) and systolic blood pressure (r = +0.21, 95% CI: 0.10-0.31, p < 0.001). Unhealthy lifestyles are prevalent among Libyan university students, with significant gender disparities. Targeted interventions (nutrition education, smoking cessation, stress management) are urgently needed
Keywords
Cardiovascular Risk, University Students, Lifestyle Factors, Libya, Obesity.
Citation Details
Attahadi Medical Journal, Vol. 3, No. 1, pp. 78-83