Dyslipidemia in Nigeria: Prevalence and pattern

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Data are scanty on the prevalence and pattern of dyslipidemia in Nigeria. However, some studies on the subject are now becoming available. This article reviews these studies on the prevalence and pattern of this important risk factor for cardiovascular disease in Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Intensive internet search on studies done in different parts of Nigeria showing the prevalence and pattern of dyslipidemia in various focal groups that include apparently healthy individuals, the elderly, diabetics, hypertensives, and diabetic hypertensives was carried out. RESULTS: Dyslipidemia was highly prevalent in all the geopolitical zones of Nigeria with the consistent pattern being low HDL-Cholesterol and high LDL-C. Overall, the prevalence of dyslipidemia ranged from 60% among apparently healthy Nigerians to 89% among diabetic Nigerians. CONCLUSION: Dyslipidemia is highly prevalent in Nigeria and health education to increase awareness of the need for and to actually screen for dyslipidemia will facilitate early detection and treatment.