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Document Type

Thesis - University Access Only

Award Date

1999

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department / School

Graduate Nursing

First Advisor

Dianna Sorenson

Keywords

blood cholesterol, blood lipoproteins, psychological aspects of exercise for women, menopause hormone therapy

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine differences in the HDL cholesterol levels of two groups of postmenopausal women. HDL cholesterol levels are thought to be the cardioprotective lipoprotein component of total cholesterol levels. The study was based on findings that state exercise directly increases HDL cholesterol levels, thus lowering the risk for cardiovascular disease.
All participants in the study had been on hormone replacement therapy for a minimum of one year. One group of women participated in a regular sustained program of exercise, and the second group did not participate in a regular sustained program of exercise. A questionnaire designed by the researcher was used to assess demographic data, as well as the participant's medical history, and dietary and exercise patterns. Chart reviews were conducted to ensure accuracy of data. Sixty-five women responded and met criteria for participation in the study. Analysis of variance found no significant differences between the HDL cholesterol levels of the 2 groups. There was no significance found between the amount of time in minutes the participants exercised and HDL cholesterol levels, but a weak non-significant relationship was found in the frequency of exercise levels and HDL cholesterol levels. Although further research is needed, this study determined that it is the frequency rather than the length of time exercise is performed that impacts HDL cholesterol levels.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Blood cholesterol
Blood lipoproteins
Exercise for women -- Physiological aspects
Menopause -- Hormone therapy

Format

application/pdf

Number of Pages

92

Publisher

South Dakota State University

Rights

Copyright © 1999 Susan M. Halter. All rights reserved

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