1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of Study
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain one of the leading causes of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 18 million deaths annually, of which a significant proportion is linked to high cholesterol levels (World Health Organization [WHO], 2021). High cholesterol is a critical health issue characterized by elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which contributes to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition that narrows arteries and restricts blood flow, leading to life-threatening complications such as heart attacks and strokes (American Heart Association [AHA], 2020).
In many countries, including Nigeria, Maki et al., (2019) articulated that, the growing prevalence of high cholesterol among women has been a significant concern. Changes in dietary habits, urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and genetic predispositions are major contributors to this health crisis. Women, particularly postmenopausal women, are at a heightened risk due to hormonal changes that affect lipid metabolism, leading to an increase in LDL cholesterol and a decrease in protective high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (Maki et al., 2019).
The morbidity and mortality associated with high cholesterol intake in women are further exacerbated by limited access to healthcare, inadequate awareness about the risks of unhealthy diets, and cultural norms that prioritize high-fat diets. In Nigeria, the rise in processed and fast food consumption has played a pivotal role in the surge of cholesterol-related health conditions (Adeoye et al., 2020). Despite the significant impact of high cholesterol on women's health, there remains a gap in research focused specifically on its morbidity and mortality rates among this population.
The growing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) globally has been a major concern, with high cholesterol intake being one of the leading risk factors. Women, in particular, are increasingly affected by the consequences of high cholesterol levels, which contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality rates (World Health Organization [WHO], 2021). Cholesterol, a waxy, fat-like substance essential for cellular functions, becomes harmful when consumed in excess, leading to conditions such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, and coronary artery diseases (AHA, 2020).
In recent years, there has been a notable shift in dietary patterns, with many individuals, including women, consuming diets rich in saturated fats and trans fats. This trend is associated with higher levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad cholesterol," which increases the risk of health complications (Nissen et al., 2019). The burden of these health issues is particularly evident in low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria, where lifestyle changes, urbanization, and lack of awareness exacerbate the problem.
Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the relationship between high cholesterol intake and health outcomes among women, aiming to identify key risk factors and provide evidence-based recommendations for reducing its burden.
1.2 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that the rising prevalence of high cholesterol intake among women is a pressing public health concern, as it is directly linked to an increase in morbidity and mortality rates. Cholesterol-related diseases, such as atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, and stroke, are becoming more common, particularly among women in both urban and rural settings. This trend is alarming, as cardiovascular diseases are already among the leading causes of death worldwide, with women disproportionately affected in certain populations (World Health Organization, 2021).
One of the key problems is the lack of awareness and understanding of how dietary choices contribute to high cholesterol levels and subsequent health complications. Many women are unaware of the hidden sources of cholesterol in their diets, which is compounded by cultural practices and limited access to health education. In developing countries like Nigeria, the shift towards processed and high-fat diets due to urbanization is exacerbating the issue (Olaogun et al., 2018).
Additionally, hormonal changes, particularly during menopause, increase women's susceptibility to cholesterol-related health issues. Reduced estrogen levels alter lipid metabolism, making women more vulnerable to cardiovascular diseases (Steinberg, 2006). However, this physiological risk is rarely addressed in health campaigns or clinical practice, leaving many women unaware of their heightened risk.
Furthermore, routine screening for cholesterol levels is often neglected, particularly in underserved communities, which leads to late diagnoses and poor management of related conditions. This lack of early intervention is a contributing factor to the high morbidity and mortality rates (Barrett-Connor, 1997). It is against the backdrop that this study seeks to address these problems is critical to reducing the burden of cholesterol-related morbidity and mortality among women, thereby improving their quality of life and overall public health outcomes.
1.3 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of high cholesterol intake on the morbidity and mortality rates among women. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To analyze the relationship between dietary cholesterol and the incidence of cardiovascular diseases in women.
- To examine the prevalence of high cholesterol intake among women and its associated health risks.
- To identify demographic and lifestyle factors contributing to high cholesterol intake among women.
- To assess the level of awareness and knowledge among women regarding the health implications of high cholesterol.
- To recommend effective dietary, medical, and policy interventions to reduce morbidity and mortality rates associated with high cholesterol intake among women.
1.4 Research Questions
The following research questions align with the stated objectives for investigating the morbidity and mortality among women as a result of high cholesterol intake:
- What is the relationship between high cholesterol intake and the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases in women?
- How do demographic factors (age, income, education level) influence cholesterol intake and its associated health risks in women?
- What are the dietary patterns and lifestyle choices that contribute to high cholesterol intake among women?
- What is the extent of morbidity and mortality among women caused by high cholesterol intake in different regions?
- How effective are existing interventions in reducing cholesterol intake and mitigating its health effects among women?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: There is no significant relationship between high cholesterol intake and the morbidity and mortality rates among women
- H1: There is significant relationship between high cholesterol intake and the morbidity and mortality rates among women
Hypothesis Two
- H0: Existing interventions are not effective in reducing cholesterol intake and improving health outcomes among women.
- H1: Existing interventions are effective in reducing cholesterol intake and improving health outcomes among women.
1.6 Significance of Study
The findings will help in identifying at-risk populations and the factors that influence cholesterol intake, such as dietary habits, lifestyle, and socioeconomic status. Furthermore, this study will contribute to the development of effective public health interventions aimed at reducing high cholesterol intake among women, ultimately improving their health outcomes.
Additionally, the results will provide healthcare providers, policymakers, and stakeholders with data that will guide the formulation of targeted health policies, education programs, and lifestyle recommendations tailored to women's specific needs.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The scope of this study is focused on investigating the morbidity and mortality among women as a result of high cholesterol intake in Lagos State, Nigeria.
The study examines the dietary habits, awareness levels, and health outcomes of women in the state, with a particular focus on identifying the prevalence of high cholesterol-related health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The study was limited by several factors that affected the scope and depth of the investigation.
- Insufficient data from medical records and dietary surveys was a major challenge, as not all healthcare facilities had complete and accessible records of women diagnosed with high cholesterol-related conditions.
- Frequent power failures in certain areas hindered the use of electronic systems for data collection and analysis.
- Additionally, delays from respondents during interviews and surveys, due to busy schedules or reluctance to participate, was encountered.
- Financial constraints was another limitation, restricting the ability to cover a larger sample size or conduct advanced biochemical tests.
- Lastly, time constraints was a barrier, limiting the study's ability to explore long-term health outcomes extensively.
1.9 Definition of Terms
Morbidity: This refers to the state of being diseased or unhealthy within a population. It is often used to describe the incidence or prevalence of a disease. For this study, morbidity represents the health complications experienced by women as a result of high cholesterol intake (World Health Organization, 2023).
Mortality: Mortality signifies the death rate or the number of deaths within a specific population over a defined period. In this context, mortality pertains to deaths among women attributed to diseases caused by high cholesterol levels (CDC, 2023).
Cholesterol: Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in the body and certain foods. While it is essential for hormone production and cell function, excessive levels, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 2022).
High Cholesterol Intake: This refers to the excessive consumption of cholesterol-rich foods, such as red meat, full-fat dairy products, and fried foods, which can lead to the accumulation of LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream (Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 2023).
Women: In this study, women refer to adult females of varying age groups, focusing onthose most vulnerable to health risks associated with high cholesterol intake,such as postmenopausal women (American Heart Association, 2023).…
