Analysis of Cholesterol Levels and Tension-Type Headache in the Elderly: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: As individuals age, they experience a decline in bodily functions. Metabolic changes can influence cholesterol levels, which play a role in atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. Previous studies have indicated a relationship between cardiovascular diseases and the occurrence of Tension-Type Headache (TTH). TTH is a primary headache characterized by episodic pain lasting from a few minutes to several weeks. The pain is typically described as a tightening or pressing sensation, with mild to moderate intensity, and is bilateral. However, the direct relationship between cholesterol levels and TTH remains underexplored. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the association between cholesterol levels and the occurrence of TTH in elderly individuals in Singapadu Tengah Village, Bali.
Methods: This cross-sectional study employed a purposive sampling technique, involving 72 elderly participants who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Cholesterol levels were measured using a GCU meter, while TTH occurrence was assessed through interviews using the HSQ questionnaire.
Results: Spearman’s rho analysis indicated no significant correlation between cholesterol levels and the occurrence of TTH (p = 0.135, r = 0.257).
Conclusion: No significant correlation was found between cholesterol levels and TTH occurrence in Singapadu Tengah Village. Further studies with larger sample sizes and longitudinal designs are recommended to clarify this relationship.

Keywords: cholesterol levels, tension-type headache, elderly