Trends in lifestyle cardiovascular risk factors in women: analysis from the Canadian National Population Health Survey.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death and disability among women. The present investigation analyzed data from the National Population Health Survey to examine the prevalence trends of self-reported lifestyle CVD risk factors in adult women. Results indicated an upward prevalence trend in physical activity and high blood pressure, and significant increased prevalence rates in obesity in the lower middle and middle income groups. Logistic regression analysis showed that increased physical activity and advancing age were significant predictors of CVD; age confers more than a one-fold risk for developing heart disease and hypertension. Implications of the study results for nursing practice are discussed.