How is lipid profile and morbidity risk in smokers and nonsmokers?

Background: Lipid profile changes are a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease with increasing prevalence in our society due to poor nutritional habits, sedentary, and smoking. Owing to lack of epidemiological data in this area, this study was designed to investigate lipid profile and morbidity risk in smokers and non- smokers in Babol, North of Iran. Methods: In this study, 204 young men over 20 years old, were selected from the City Health Centers in five areas (North, South, East, West and Central) by cluster-sampling method and were referred to Musa- AL -Reza Clinic. After filling the registration form and a questionnaire about their medical history, blood samples were taken in fasting condition. After serum preparation, lipid profile tests were performed using standard spectrophotometric methods in the laboratory of biochemistry. Statistical analysis was done using t-test.Results: Forty three patients (21.1%) were smokers and 161 (78.9%) were nonsmokers. The frequencies of male smokers with total cholesterol index in morbidity range were significantly higher than nonsmokers (39.5% VS. 25.4%, p<0.05). Such circumstances were particularly more pronounced in LDL-C index and the number of male smokers was more both in moderate and high morbidity levels of LDL-C (14% VS. 10.5% and 23.2% VS. 16.8% respectively, p<0.05).Conclusion: Smokers had impaired lipid profiles and are at increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Designing and implementing health programs seem to be necessary for changing adverse eating habits and reducing population smoking behavior.