Assesment of awareness of traditional and female-sex-related cardiovascular risk factors among Ukrainian women
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https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6452-045X
Abstract
The aim – to assess the level of awareness among Ukrainian women regarding traditional and female-sex-related cardiovascular risk factors, including those associated with sex- and gender-specific characteristics.
Materials and methods. An online survey was conducted among 273 women aged 20 years and older. The questionnaire included multiple-choice questions assessing knowledge of traditional and female-sex-related cardiovascular risk factors, such as pregnancy-related complications, autoimmune diseases, hormonal contraception, and psycho-emotional status, and also questions about preventive measures women regularly undertake.
Results. A high level of awareness was observed regarding traditional CVD risk factors: smoking (95 %), physical activity (94 %), and stress (90 %). However, awareness of the cardiovascular impact of pregnancy-related conditions and childbirth was considerably lower (61 %), as well as knowledge of autoimmune diseases (53 %). While 80 % and 89 % of participants regularly monitored blood glucose and blood pressure respectively, 35 % had never checked their cholesterol levels. Moreover, 60 % of women were unaware that angina can present without typical chest pain, and 66 % had never consulted a physician for CVD prevention.
Conclusions. The awareness of female-sex-related cardiovascular risk factors among Ukrainian women is inadequate. There is an urgent need for comprehensive educational programs tailored to the needs of different age and social groups. Increasing women’s awareness is a key factor in improving cardiovascular health outcomes and reducing mortality.
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