Report from the CDC. Changes in selected chronic disease-related risks and health conditions for nonpregnant women 18-44 years old BRFSS

Abstract

We examined changes in the prevalence of selected chronic disease-related indicators among women aged 18-44 years using the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data for two time periods, 1991-1992 and 2000-2001. We examined alcohol use, cigarette smoking, leisure time physical activity, body mass index (BMI), having had Pap smear screening, and having been diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and asthma. We created a multicondition index by combining multiple chronic disease-related conditions. Younger women, <25 years of age, reported a higher prevalence of cigarette smoking and binge drinking. Black women and women with lower educational levels had a higher prevalence of obesity, and higher proportions were diagnosed with hypertension and diabetes. About 35% of the women had been diagnosed with at least one chronic disease-related condition. More than 10% of black women reported being diagnosed with two chronic disease-related conditions, compared with 7% in white women and 8% in Hispanic women. The BRFSS data can be used for monitoring the prevalence of multiple chronic disease-related behaviors and conditions.