College Students’ Knowledge of Risk Factors Related to Cardiovascular Disease

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a prevalent health issue, accounting for a large proportion of deaths worldwide. Despite the high prevalence of this potentially detrimental condition, many college students are not fully aware of its contributing risk factors. The purpose of the current study was to determine college students’ knowledge of risk factors related to CVD. Methods: This was a quantitative, cross-sectional study with a descriptive design. A survey with 5 demographic questions and 20 Likert-type statements was administered to 118 students in a Midwestern college in the United States. Results: The majority of the students displayed knowledge of risk factors such as smoking tobacco, inactive lifestyle, hypertension, low intake of fruits and vegetables, elevated cholesterol levels, high dietary sodium and obesity. However, a knowledge deficit existed regarding gender and ethnicity, which are non-modifiable risk factors, albeit important considerations. Conclusions: Although students appeared knowledgeable about areas such as cholesterol in cardiovascular health, further education could be beneficial to improve this knowledge base.