Estimation of Risk for Cardiovascular Disease within Different Adult Age Groups in Aruba: A Cross-Sectional Study
- 1 School of Medicine, Xavier University, Prospect Park, USA
- 2 School of Medicine, Xavier University, Prospect Park, USA
- 3 School of Medicine, Xavier University, Prospect Park, USA
- 4 School of Medicine, Xavier University, Prospect Park, USA
- 5 School of Medicine, Xavier University, Prospect Park, USA
- 6 School of Medicine, Xavier University, Prospect Park, USA
- 7 School of Medicine, Xavier University, Prospect Park, USA
- 8 School of Medicine, Xavier University, Prospect Park, USA
- 9 School of Medicine, Xavier University, Prospect Park, USA
- 10 School of Medicine, Xavier University, Prospect Park, USA
Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular disease [1] remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, driven largely by modifiable risk factors. Limited data exist on CVD risk in the Caribbean, particularly in Aruba. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 132 adults in Aruba assessed 30-year CVD risk, blood pressure, cholesterol, body mass index, and lifestyle habits. Statistical analyses included t-tests, ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, and correlation tests to examine differences across gender, ethnicity. Results: Males had significantly higher 30-year CVD risk, blood pressure, body weight, and unfavorable cholesterol profiles compared with females (0.01). Arubans exhibited higher blood pressure than Hispanics, while dietary patterns differed across ethnic groups. Conclusion: Gender, ethnicity are strongly associated with cardiovascular risk in Aruba. These findings highlight the need for tailored, culturally sensitive public health interventions to address disparities and reduce long-term CVD burden.
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