Assessing Cardiovascular Risk Factors Among College Students In Syrian Private University- A Cross- Sectional Study

Background Assessing cardiovascular risk factors among university students is important as it allows for early intervention and prevention of future diseases. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors among students at the Syrian Private University. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2025 using a convenience sampling among students of the Syrian Private University. A self-administered questionnaire in Arabic was distributed to the students. Data were coded and entered into a computer, then analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Results The study sample consisted of 252 students, with 53.6% male and 46.4% female. Medical students constituted the largest proportion (31.3%), followed by dental students (29%). Current smoking prevalence was 19%. Low physical activity was reported by 43.3%, and 63.9% reported consuming fast food. Sleep disturbances were present in 17.5% of participants. Depressive symptoms were identified in nearly one-third of students (33.7%), while anxiety was reported by 29.8%. Stress was highly prevalent, affecting 81.3% of the students. Overall, 74% of participants had at least two cardiovascular risk factors. Conclusion This study highlights the clustering of cardiovascular risk factors among young adults, particularly obesity and psychological disorders. Early and multidimensional interventions may have a significant impact on reducing the future burden of cardiovascular diseases.