Sex-specific associations between the environmental exposures and low-grade inflammation and increased blood pressure in young, healthy subjects.

Long-term exposures to environmental factors including airborne as well as noise pollutants, are associated with cardiovascular risk. However, the influence of environmental pollution on the young population is controversial. Accordingly, we aimed to investigate the relationships between long-term exposures to different environmental factors and major cardiovascular and inflammatory parameters and biomarkers in young, healthy subjects. Representative sample of permanent residents of two cities differing in air and noise pollution levels, aged 15-21 years, were recruited. Krakow and Lublin, both located in southern Poland, were chosen in relation to their similarities in demographic and geopolitical characteristics, but differences in air pollution (higher in Krakow) and noise parameters (higher in Lublin). A total of 576 subjects were studied: 292 in Krakow and 284 in Lublin. All subjects underwent health questionnaire, blood pressure measurements and biomarker determinations. Inflammatory biomarkers, such as CRP, hs-CRP, fibrinogen as well as homocysteine were all significantly higher in subjects living in Krakow as opposed to subjects living in Lublin (for hsCRP: 0.52 (0.32-0.98) mg/l vs. 0.35 (0.22-0.67) mg/l; p < 0.001). Increased inflammatory biomarker levels were observed in Krakow in both male and female young adults. Interestingly, significant differences were observed in blood pressure between male and female subjects. Males from Krakow had significantly higher mean systolic blood pressure (127.7 ± 10.4 mm/Hg vs. 122.4 ± 13.0 mm/Hg; p = 0.001), pulse pressure (58.7 ± 8.9 mm/Hg vs. 51.4 ± 12.3 mm/Hg; p < 0.001) and lower heart rate (p < 0.001) as compared to males living in Lublin. This was not observed in young adult females. Long-term exposure to environmental factors related to the place of residence can significantly influence inflammatory and cardiovascular parameters, even in young individuals. Interestingly, among otherwise healthy young adults, blood pressure differences exhibited significant variations based on biological sex.

[The effectiveness of cardiovascular education in the prevention of heart disease among the inhabitants of Lesser Poland].

OBJECTIVE: Introduction: Numerous risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) are modifiable, therefore understanding their effects has a significant impact on lowering the incidence and mortality. The "Malopolska Cardiovascular Preventive Intervention Study (M-CARPI)" aims to educate the inhabitants of the voivodeship regarding preventative measures for developing CVD. The aim: To examine the effectiveness of the seminars regarding preventative measures for developing CVD according to the M-CAPRI among the inhabitants of Lesser Poland. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Material and methods: The seminars were carried out by a doctor with a specialization in cardiology, in the form of presentations, based on materials prepared by experts in accordance with European and Polish guidelines. Both initially and after the course, participants completed questionnaires regarding the subjects discussed. RESULTS: Results: The study covered 558 people (137 men, 411 women). The analysis was based on the sub-populations of retirees and non-retirees. The knowledge of risk factors was checked, the respondents most often indicated incorrect judgment of nutrition, physical activity and smoking (45.9%, 39%, 44.2% for non-retirees and 22.8%, 27.6%, 16.5% for retirees, respectively). A significant increase in the number of people who indicated individual risk factors after the training was found (p=0,047 for HDL level and for others). CONCLUSION: Conclusions: Educating and creating awareness towards the prevention of CVD according to the M-CAPRI survey protocol is an effective tool for prevention. Due to the limited knowledge of cardiovascular risk factors, it is necessary to carry out activities to raise awareness of the importance of cardiological disease prevention. Preventive interventions are equally effective regardless of age or profession.