Cardiovascular disease in women in Paraguay: Perception and preventive and risk behaviors
Keywords:
cardiovascular disease, women, perception, risk factors, preventionAbstract
Introduction: In Paraguay, more than 30% of deaths in women are due to cardiovascular disease (CVD), although there is little information on women's perception of this risk. Objective: To describe the perception and preventive or risk behaviors for CVD in Paraguayan women, according to educational level. Methodology: This was an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study with convenience sampling. Women who were personal and family contacts of outpatients at the National Hospital between January and March 2025 were invited to participate in the study. An online questionnaire was administered that included demographic data, perceptions of causes of death in the female population, and preventive or risk behaviors for CVD. Results: A total of 438 women between 17 and 77 years of age participated in the study; 123 with primary/secondary education and 325 with tertiary education. 31.7% identified CVD as the primary cause of death, with a higher incidence in the group with tertiary education (36.2% vs. 26%). 15.4 % were unaware that a woman can die from a heart attack. High blood pressure was the most common cardiovascular risk factor (31.5%). 27.1% had never had a cardiology checkup; 12.3% were unaware of their blood pressure levels, and 35.6% were unaware of their cholesterol levels. Only knowledge of cholesterol levels showed significant differences between educational levels. Conclusion: Cardiovascular risk perception among Paraguayan women is limited, and preventable risk behaviors persist. Educational strategies need to be strengthened to improve CVD prevention in this population.
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