Red meat consumption and its association with hypertension and hyperlipidaemia among adult Maasai pastoralists of Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

A study conducted among the Maasai pastoralists in Tanzania's Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) reveals a significant link between red meat consumption and hyperlipidaemia, despite their active lifestyle. The research found that 23.7% of participants exhibited hyperlipidaemia, with higher prevalence in males (29%) compared to females (20.1%). Additionally, 9.8% had hypertension, while 37% showed elevated blood pressure, both more common in males. The study used a cross-sectional design, collecting data on dietary habits, anthropometric measurements, and blood samples from 894 participants across seven villages. Bayesian logistic regression analyses indicated that higher levels of red meat consumption were associated with increased hyperlipidaemia risk. These findings suggest that even among physically active populations, high intake of animal products may contribute to cardiovascular risks, warranting further longitudinal studies.

Diarz, E. J., Leyaro, B. J., Kivuyo, S. L., Ngowi, B. J., Msuya, S. E., Mfinanga, S. G., Bonfoh, B., & Mahande, M. J. (2020). Red meat consumption and its association with hypertension and hyperlipidaemia among adult Maasai pastoralists of Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania. Plos One, 15(6), e0233777. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0233777