Major differences in cardiovascular risk indicators by educational status. Results from a population based screening program.

All people aged 30-59 years living in one primary health care center's catchment area were invited to participate in a population based screening program. A total of 2642 people (68%) participated. An overall risk index for having a heart attack within 5 years (Ps) was calculated based on diastolic BP, smoking status, total cholesterol, and age. Other risk indicators registered were Body Mass Index, and physical activity. A highly significant association between education level and age-adjusted overall risk index for both men (p = 0.001) and women (p < 0.001) was found. Also Body Mass Index, total cholesterol, smoking status, and, for women, diastolic blood pressure showed similar significant variation with education level with higher education associated to lower risk. These findings imply the possibility of a great variation in the "risk" of receiving pharmacological treatment for one's CVD risk factors.