A team from the Population Health Research Institute (McMaster University, Canada) systematically reviewed studies published between January 1980 and April 2005 to understand how common key risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) are across the Middle East. They included English-language studies from the region with at least 1,000 participants and reported the prevalence of one or more well-established CVD risks.
Key Risk Factors Assessed
- Diabetes mellitus
- Obesity (body mass index > 30)
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- High cholesterol (dyslipidaemia)
- Smoking
What the Review Found
The researchers reported a high prevalence of diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and smoking in Middle Eastern populations. Smoking was more common among men, whereas obesity and high blood pressure were more common among women. Taken together, the authors concluded that cardiovascular disease—the underlying cause of heart attacks, heart failure, and strokes—will continue to be a major health challenge for the region in the years ahead.
Diet Patterns Matter
An additional study from Iran highlighted how patterns of food intake relate to CVD risk. While low HDL-cholesterol (“good” cholesterol) is seen in about 37% of adults in the United States, estimates in several Middle Eastern samples have reached ~69%. Genetics alone do not explain this gap. Lifestyle factors—especially diets high in refined carbohydrates and hydrogenated fats—are common in the region and likely contribute to higher triglycerides and lower HDL levels.
Why Early Checks Are Crucial
“Looking at the research, our feeling is that we could be on the edge of a potentially serious epidemic of heart-related ailments in the Middle East—particularly since so many of the subjects were unaware of their conditions. Problems like hypertension or even diabetes can be asymptomatic in the early stages, so patients are unaware of the problems they face.”
Dr. Wael Almahmeed, Consultant Cardiologist, Sheikh Khalifah Medical City (Abu Dhabi)
Regular screening for blood pressure, fasting glucose/HbA1c, and cholesterol helps detect silent problems before they escalate.
Practical Steps You Can Take
- Move more, consistently. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week. Regular movement supports healthy blood pressure, glucose control, and lipids.
- Train smart. Add two days of strength or interval work to boost cardiovascular and metabolic health. For ideas that make cardio more approachable, see how healthy exercise reduces vascular risk.
- Upgrade everyday habits. Focus on whole foods, fibre, lean proteins, and unsaturated fats; limit refined sugars and trans/hydrogenated fats. For a broader wellness checklist tailored to men in midlife, visit tips on healthy living for middle-aged men.
- Know the evidence. For clear, globally relevant guidance on CVD risks and prevention, see the World Health Organization’s cardiovascular disease fact sheet.
Changing regional trends in diet, activity, and tobacco use can significantly reduce the Middle East’s future CVD burden. Awareness, early screening, and steady lifestyle improvements remain the most effective first steps.