Dyslipidemia and Associated Factors Among a High-Risk Population for Stroke: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Aims: Dyslipidemia is a major modifiable risk factor for stroke; however, it is poorly understood among patients at risk of stroke in Uganda. This study is aimed at determining the prevalence of dyslipidemia and identifying associated factors among a Ugandan sample at risk for stroke. Methods: This was a hospital based cross-sectional study conducted across three Ugandan sites. The serum lipid levels were determined following the National Cholesterol Education Program guidelines. Data were analyzed with STATA employing un invariable and multivariable logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: We enrolled 247 study participants with a mean age (SD) of 55.4 (12.0) years. Majority of the participants were female, n = 168 (68%). About 81% (N = 199) had elevated serum lipid levels. Sixty-one (24.7%) had elevated levels of total serum cholesterol, whereas half of female participants had abnormally low levels of HDL cholesterol. About a third (N = 82 and 84, respectively) had elevated serum LDL and triglycerides. Nearly 40% (N = 98) were obese and 23.5% had a sedentary lifestyle (N = = 58). Only 20.2% (N = 50) were receiving lipid lowering drugs. Prior family stroke history and personal history of stroke had lower odds of 58% (AOR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.20–0.88, p = 0.022); and 64% (AOR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.17–0.76, p = 0.008), respectively, of having dyslipidemia. Conclusions: Approximately four in five Ugandans at risk of stroke have dyslipidemia. The majority also have low HDL-c levels. Implementation of systematic screening and provision of statin therapy among those at high risk for stroke is urgently needed to reduce stroke burden in Uganda.