Body Mass Index and Cardiovascular Risk Indicators Among Secondary School Adolescents in Kano State, North West Nigeria

Background: Adolescent obesity is emerging as a precursor to adult cardiovascular disease across Nigerian geopolitical zones. Studies from 2021 onwards document a rising prevalence of overweight and obese teenagers in northern Nigerian states, driven by changing dietary patterns and declining physical activity. Early identification of cardiovascular risk among adolescents is critical for preventive intervention. Objectives: This descriptive study seeks to determine the relationship between body mass index and selected cardiovascular risk indicators, including resting heart rate and blood pressure, among secondary school adolescents in Kano State. Methods: Four hundred students aged 13 to 18 years from four randomly selected government secondary schools will participate. Anthropometric measurements including weight, height, waist circumference, and hip circumference will be obtained. Blood pressure and resting heart rate will be assessed using standardised equipment. Data will be analysed using SPSS, with Pearson correlation and ANOVA applied as appropriate. Expected Outcomes: It is hypothesised that elevated body mass index will correlate positively with increased resting blood pressure and heart rate, identifying a subset of adolescents at measurable cardiovascular risk. Conclusion: The study will provide geographically relevant data to guide school-based health screening programmes in North West Nigeria. Keywords: BMI, cardiovascular risk, adolescents, Kano, blood pressure.