Dissemination of Selected Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Diseases Among Patients Using Primary Health Care in the Lodz Voivodeship

Abstract Background Cardiovascular diseases, classified as civilization diseases, constitute the most common cause of death among both women and men. Metabolic syndrome is a set of factors that predispose to the occurrence such diseases. Importantly, can be partly prevented by reducing modifiable risk factors. Objective The aim of the study was to uncover the distribution of selected risk factors for cardiovascular diseases among patients utilising primary health care in the Lodz Voivodeship. Material and methods An original online questionnaire consisting of 32 questions was distributed. The study involved 164 inhabitants of the Lodz Voivode-ship who use primary health care facilities. Inclusion criteria: residents of the Lodz Voivodeship, aged between 30 and 60 years as well as informed consent to participate in the study. Results Hypertension affected 26.2% of participants. In the age range 30–40 years: 4.1% of participants, 41–50 years: 28.3%, and 51–60 years: 61.4% of participants. Diabetes affected 21.3% of participants. 64% of respondents had a BMI above normal. 28.7% of respondents did not engage in physical activity. Among the surveyed, smokers accounted for 37.8%. Among university diploma holders, smokers accounted for 28.2%, and those with non-university education – 54.1%. Conclusions The incidence of hypertension in the population of Lodz increases with age. The prevalence of dyslipidemia was independent of gender but dependent on education – higher among respondents with non-university education. Most of the inhabitants of the Lodz Voivodeship were physically active. Moreover, the most frequently chosen forms of physical activity were walking and Nordic walking, and less frequently – aerobics. The prevalence of smoking was similar among women and men. Smokers were more likely to be people with non-university education. The need of taking measures to raise awareness of cardiovascular risk factors, promote healthy lifestyles, and combat obesity has been identified.