Population based study of serum lipid levels in Al-Kharj Health Center, Saudi Arabia

OBJECTIVE: Previous studies have shown high prevalence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obesity and smoking in this community. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and factors associated with hyperlipidemia.

METHODS: A questionnaire was administered on all patients </=13-years of age seen by investigators between April 2002 and October 2002 in Al-Kharj Health Centre, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Questions were asked regarding demography; weight and height were measured and blood was collected after 14 hours fasting for lipid levels.

RESULTS: Four hundred and twenty-three (56.7%) of the study population had cholesterol level <5.2 mmol/L. Three hundred and twenty-three (43.3%) had cholesterol level >5.2 mmol/L (desirable level according to National Cholesterol Education Program [NCEP]). Mean serum cholesterol level for males and females were 5.08 mmol/L and 5.19 mmol/L; 462 (59.80%) had triglycerides level <1.7 mmol/L and 311 (40.20%) had level >1.7 mmol/L (NCEP). Age <50 years, education less than high school (12 years), family history of hyperlipidemia and high triglyceride levels were strongly associated with hyperlipidemia.

CONCLUSION: The study points to high prevalence of total cholesterol, triglyceride and low density lipoprotein in this population. We suggest further studies and steps to reverse these factors, which are modifiable by changes in lifestyle.