The purpose of this grant proposal is to examine the importance of physical activity and fitness during college on cardiovascular risk, incidence, and death later in life.

Overall Aim: To determine if health related behaviors during college and throughout life impact the risk and onset of chronic diseases.

Study Design: This research project will attempt to measure changes in physical activity patterns throughout a lifespan and its impact on cardiovascular disease risk, incidence, and mortality. A longitudinal cohort study design will be initiated during college and followed throughout a lifespan.

Study Population: Male and female undergraduate students enrolled in Kinesiology 121 and COM 220 will be enrolled into the study. All study participants will attend a large Midwestern University. A maximum of 2000 students will enter the cohort per year. This will include 600 students are enrolled in Kinesiology 121 and 1200 students enrolled in COM 220.

Course Description: Kinesiology 121 (Healthy Lifestyles) is an undergraduate course required for Kinesiology majors. It is a lecture/activity based class that emphasizes the importance of healthy behaviors. COM 220 is a general communications course. This course will serve as a control group and may represent the general university population more accurately. It is possible for more physically active student to self-select into a Kinesiology activity course.

DATA COLLECTION:
Longitudinal Surveillance Engine: The majority of data collection will utilize a new and powerful research tool, the Longitudinal Survey Engine (LSE), recently developed at Michigan State University under the direction of Dr. James C. Anthony. The LSE is an internet based survey engine that offers anonymity and privacy for exploring topics that otherwise might be too sensitive to effectively engage participants in scientifically meaningful disclosures. The LSE is designed for large sample longitudinal, epidemiologic, prevention, and intervention research protocols.

ADDITIONAL PURPOSES:
1) evaluate the ability of the ACE I/D polymorphism to predict PA involvement and PF performance

2) determine how the ACE-PA interaction is related to CVD risk factors (hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and obesity) in a young adult (college age) population.

To accomplish these additional purposes the use of indicator FTA cards will be used to collect and store participants' DNA. The DNA will then be amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), electrophoresed for differenation of ACE insertion/deletion polymorphism, and visulaized with UV transillumination.