Aging, Obesity and Unhealthy Lifestyle Behaviors; Risk Factors for the Emergence of Cardiometabolic Diseases in Pakistani Adults (P01-019-19)

Abstract

ObjectivesSubstantial mortality and morbidity due to cardiometabolic diseases (CMD’s) has significantly increased in low resource settings, including Pakistan. Ageing and unhealthy lifestyle practices (smoking, an unhealthy diet and physical inactivity) upsurge the risk, resulting in double burden on health care system. In this study, we determined the prevalence of CMD’s and the associated risk factors using data from a large community survey. MethodsA large community survey was conducted in Gulshan-e-Iqbal town, Karachi, Pakistan, using multi-stage sampling technique. Medical camps were set up accordingly to collect data. Data collection was based on socio-demographics, clinical diagnosis and self-reported history of the diseases. Hypertension, stroke, adiposity, dyslipidemia and diabetes were defined using standardized, cut-off values. Cardiometabolic disease was defined as the presence of at least one of the listed illnesses. Chi-square test and logistic regression was used to identify the risk factors for cardio metabolic diseases. Odd’s ratio and 95% confidence interval were used to report the findings. ResultsOf the total 2968 participants, 51.8% adults were found with cardio-metabolic diseases. Of all, 39.7% had hypertension followed by 29.7% obesity, 23.1% diabetes and 11.9% dyslipidemia, respectively. A significant increasing trend was observed for age and body mass index (BMI) with the risk of CMD. Older respondents aged 50–59 years (OR = 2.18, 95% CI [1.77–2.70]), 60–69 years (OR = 3.0, 95% CI [2.28–3.96]) and > 70 years (OR = 3.04, 95% CI [2.06–4.48]) were significantly more likely to have CMD as compared to younger adults. Similarly, participants being overweight (OR = 1.39, 95% CI [1.16–1.67]), obese (OR = 1.70, 95% CI [1.41–2.05]) and married (OR = 1.41, 95% CI [1.07–1.86]) had higher of odds of developing cardiometabolic diseases. Moreover, physical activity was found to have a protective effect on CMD. ConclusionsAn apparent profile of cardiometabolic disease emerges as BMI and age increases; however a protective behavior was observed with physical activity. Understanding these findings, suggest multidisciplinary programs and policies for early detection of multiple chronic illnesses, additionally with behavioral guidelines to prevent further disease progression and complications. Funding SourcesNo funding was available.