Assessing the Impact of Overweight and Obesity on Cardiovascular Health Among Syrian Population Living in North and East Syria: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

As the global prevalence of overweight and obesity continues to rise, understanding their impact on cardiovascular health is crucial for developing effective interventions and healthcare policies. Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including heart disease and stroke, remain the leading causes of death worldwide. Addressing this issue begins with assessing the prevalence of overweight and obesity and evaluating their effects on CVD risks, as demonstrated in the population of North and East Syria. A total of 167 participants (47.5% males, 40.4% females) with a mean age of 49.4 years were assessed. The average BMI was 27.9, with overweight and obesity rates of 34.2% and 35.3%, respectively. High waist circumference was observed in 49.7% of participants, with a significant gender difference, as 63.4% of females exhibited this condition compared to 36.5% of males. The mean systolic blood pressure was 132.1 mmHg, and the mean diastolic blood pressure was 85.3 mmHg. Hypertriglyceridemia was the most obesity prevalent risk factor (61.7%), followed by high waist circumference (49.7%), hypertension (32.9%), and hyperglycemia (32.3%). Hypercholesterolemia had the lowest prevalence (9.6%). A significant association was found between age and waist circumference, mean arterial pressure, fasting blood glucose, and cardiometabolic syndrome development. Gender differences extended to lifestyle and educational factors. Smoking and alcohol consumption were significantly higher among males (58.8% and 18.8%, respectively), while females had lower education levels (36.6% uneducated). Being overweight and obese was strongly associated with a history of hypertension, a family history of CVD, and a lack of education. This study highlights the significant burden of obesity and its associated health risks in North and East Syria. It emphasizes the need for targeted public health interventions focusing on education, lifestyle modification, and early detection of obesity-related conditions to mitigate the rising prevalence of cardiometabolic disorders in the region.