Osteoporosis Health Beliefs, Knowledge and Life Habits among Women in Saudi Arabia

The albumin and lipid profile changes following treadmill exercise were assessed among 160 apparently healthy student volunteers made up of 80 males and 80 females within the age bracket of 18 - 30 years, the physically active age group within the universities. The anthropometric indices (weight, height and BMI) of the subjects were taken using reference/standard methods. The blood pressures and pulse rate, then albumin and lipid profiles were also taken before and after exercise. The participants ran on a treadmill and their physical conditions were assessed using the Bruce protocol. Immediate post-exercise blood samples were again analyzed in the laboratory. There were significant increases (P < 0.05) in the after-exercise systolic BP, pulse rate and serum albumin, while marked decrease in diastolic BP was recorded (P < 0.05). Following exercise, total cholesterol and Low Density Lipoprotein reduced significantly (P < 0.01) in both sexes while High Density Lipoprotein increased markedly in males (P < 0.01) but not significantly increased in females (P > 0.5). There were gender variations in response to the treadmill exercise. Some of these findings indicate the expected functional alterations in the life of the students and there is a need to recommend the adoption of regular moderate exercise pattern to the students. These can bring about positive changes in their serum lipid and albumin profiles for better health in the face of stressful academic life.