Prevention of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes: importance of a screening program for the early detection of risk conditions in a target population

Introduction. Cardiovascular diseases and diabetes are one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In their genesis, an important role is played by some behavioral risk factors that may act inducing the onset of “intermediate risks factors” represented by hypertension, prediabetes, overweight and obesity. This study aimed to show the importance of the screening methodology to early detect these risk conditions in order to reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes complications. Methods. We carried out a screening program involving a cohort of people aged 45-60 in which risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and diabetes were evaluated. The subjects were then classified in four groups according to the risk conditions. Results. A high percentage (27.0%) of the sample resulted with some alteration in the detected anthropometric and/or clinical-laboratory parameters but unaware of this condition and, consequently, not under therapeutic treatment. Conclusions. The screening program allowed the early detection of hypertension and prediabetes or full-blown diabetes conditions in subjects that unknown their pathological condition, and consequently to proceed with adequate investigations and start healthy lifestyles/pharmacological therapies. Overall, the results highlight the need to anticipate these screening campaigns, especially in men, to increase the effectiveness of the prevention programs