Knowledge of cardiovascular diseases among university students in Egypt

TL;DR

This study assesses university students in Egypt's knowledge of cardiovascular diseases and finds significant gaps in understanding dietary fats and cholesterol.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into CVD awareness among Egyptian university students, identifying gender and faculty-based disparities.

Findings

Female students scored significantly higher in CVD knowledge than males.

Students in Dentistry had the highest knowledge scores, while those in applied sciences and engineering/arts scored lower.

Awareness was low regarding HDL cholesterol and dietary fats' impact on cholesterol.

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide. Promoting early awareness and understanding of modifiable risk factors among young people is crucial for prevention. Yet, little is known about the level of awareness among university students in Egypt. This study aimed to evaluate university students’ knowledge of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and their associated risk factors, with a focus on general awareness, scientific understanding, and behavioral responses related to cardiovascular health. A cross-sectional analytical study was carried out among 300 university students using a pre-validated English questionnaire administered through Google forms. Participants were recruited from seven faculties at Pharos University. The questionnaire evaluated students’ knowledge of CVD risk factors and their overall awareness of cardiovascular conditions. The study revealed significantly higher knowledge scores among female participants (15.3 ± 2.6) compared to males (13.8 ± 4.0), (p = 0.007). The Faculty of Dentistry had the highest mean knowledge score (15.6 ± 3.1), with a significant decline in knowledge observed among students from applied sciences and engineering/arts (p = 0.04 and 0.002, respectively). While no significant differences were found between dentistry, pharmacy, or physical education students. Higher academic grades generally had better CVD knowledge compared to first-year students (12.6 ± 3.7), (p = 0.04). Furthermore, high awareness was noted in several areas, including the role of blood pressure control (87.6%), physical activity (85.1%), obesity (85.6%), smoking (90%), and aging (89.6%) in CVD risk. Moderate awareness was observed for family history (75.1%), blood sugar control (70.1%), and myocardial oxygen supply (70.6%). However, low awareness was noted regarding the role of HDL cholesterol (45.8%) and the effect of fatty foods on cholesterol (23.9%). Although university students showed a generally good awareness of major cardiovascular risk factors, notable knowledge gaps persisted—especially regarding dietary fats and cholesterol types. These results highlight the importance of implementing targeted educational programs to improve cardiovascular health awareness among young adults in Egypt.

Figures