Tabagism, Physical activity and cardiovascular risk in youth. An analysis of MACISTE study

Background: the MACISTE study (Metabolic and Cardiovascular Investigation at School, Terni) aimed at evaluating the metabolic and cardiovascular abnormalities and behaviors in healthy adolescents attending a High School. We evaluated the prevalence of smoking habits and the relationship between smoking and physical activity. Methods: 539 students (302 boys, 237 girls) were evaluated through: 1- self-reported questionnaires about lifestyles, smoking and physical habits, 2-measurement of exaled carbon-monoxide. Results: 65 subjects (12%) did not answer about smoking. Among the 474 subjects, 125 subjects (26%) were smokers, and 349 (74%) were non-smokers. Smoking prevalence significantly increased among the female sex and age-groups (R. 14 - 19)(Figure). 97 subjects (21%) reported sedentary lifestyle, 157 (33%) were involved in non-competitive physical activities, and 220 (46%) were involved in competitive sports. Smoking was more prevalent in sedentaries (37%), than in non-agonistic athletes (27%), and in athletes (21%, ANOVA p=0.009). The measurement of exaled carbon-monoxide, available in 250 subjects, was in agreement with self-reported data about smoking habits. Conclusions: smoking prevalence is disproportionately high among young Italian adolescents. Phisical activity is associated with a lower prevalence of smoking. However, the unacceptably high rate of smokers among athletes requires dedicated educational interventions.