A Cross-Sectional Study on Cardiovascular Disease Risk Assessment among the Adult Population in Poonamallee Taluka, Tiruvallur District, Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Introduction: Non – Communicable Diseases, driven by factors like increased life expectancy, urbanization and unhealthy lifestyles have become a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. India is undergoing a health transition, with Cardio Vascular Diseases now representing a significant part of its disease burden. Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of CVD risk and its associated factors using World Health Organization/ International Society of Hypertension risk prediction charts. Method: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of 18 months among 545 participants in Poonamallee Taluk, Tiruvallur district. Participants were selected using a multistage simple random sampling method. Sociodemographic data were collected through interviews, and blood samples were taken to assess blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Descriptive statistics for background variables were computed using SPSS 21. The association between various factors and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk was analysed using the chi square test. Multiple logistic regression was performed to identify independent risk factors. Results: The mean age of the study subjects was 54.3+9 years with 60.2% being females. The 10-year CVD risk, based on the WHO/ISH risk prediction chart 30.6% had low risk (5 – 10%) and 30.3% had moderate risk (10 - <20%). Age, gender, education, socio – economic status and family history of NCDs, were significantly associated with CVD risk (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study highlighted that 11.8% have a high prevalence of CVD risk factors among adults over 40 years. The findings emphasize the importance of targeted interventions, including promoting physical activity, healthy diets, and regular screenings.

Keywords

• cardiovascular diseases
• epidemiological transition
• risk assessment