Knowledge of coronary arteriosclerosis risk factors and their occurrence and the lifestyles of the first-year medical students

Background
Coronary arteriosclerosis risk factors increase the probability of the coronary heart disease and accompanying complications to a significant extent, acting independently from other circumstances.

Material and methods
The study was conducted in a group of 250 students of the 1st-year medical studies, using an independently prepared questionnaire relating to the risk factors and particular lifestyles.

Results
1. Level of knowledge of the examined students on coronary arteriosclerosis risk factors: obesity - 250(100%); reduced physical activity - 240(96%); smoking - 230(92%); unhealthy diet - 223(89%); elevated LDL cholesterol concentration - 218(87%); arterial hypertension - 210(84%). 2. Incidence of coronary arteriosclerosis risk factors in students: strong family history - 75(30%); excessive stress - 50(20%); reduced physical activity - 190(76%); smoking - 55(22%), alcohol abuse - 95(38%). 3. Lifestyle of the examined group of students: eating fast-food – 180 (72%); drinking energetic beverages – 82(33%); "trying" and using drugs – 88(35%); insufficient amount of sleep – 190(76%).

Conclusions
1. Level of the examined students’ knowledge on coronary arteriosclerosis risk factors is satisfactory. 2. Despite the satisfactory level of knowledge on risk factors, their incidence in the tested group is significant. 3. Majority of the examined students live a healthy lifestyle.