Examining Dyslipidemia Disparities Between Smokers and Non-Smokers: A Comparative Study

Background: Dyslipidemia, characterized by elevated total cholesterol, LDL-C, triglycerides, and low HDL-C, is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Smoking exacerbates these lipid abnormalities, increasing cardiovascular risk, yet the disparities in lipid profiles between smokers and non-smokers are not well defined.Objective: To compare the lipid profiles of smokers and non-smokers and evaluate the extent of dyslipidemia associated with smoking.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 500 participants (250 smokers, 250 non-smokers) from an urban hospital. Fasting serum samples were collected and analyzed for total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, and triglycerides. Smoking status was self-reported and validated by cotinine levels. Statistical analysis included ANOVA and multiple regression to assess lipid differences between groups, adjusting for confounders.Results: Smokers had significantly higher total cholesterol (213.4 ± 42.1 mg/dL vs. 197.2 ± 38.7 mg/dL, p < 0.001) and LDL-C (142.7 ± 35.4 mg/dL vs. 126.3 ± 31.6 mg/dL, p < 0.001) and lower HDL-C (44.3 ± 11.2 mg/dL vs. 53.7 ± 12.9 mg/dL, p < 0.001) compared to non-smokers.