Exploring Potential Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease among the Populations in Rural Areas of Central-Southern Region of Kerala, India: A Prospective Observational Study.

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death among the population in rural areas and therefore the risk factors associated with various groups of population are key factors to help in the treatment and prevention of this diseases. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the various risk factors among the population in rural areas of Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India. Materials and methods: A prospective observational study was carried out among the rural areas of Pathanamthitta district. The sample size of the study was 500 individuals. The study period ranged 6 months. The data was collected using a semi structured questionnaire and various instruments to evaluate risk factors including diabetes mellitus, blood pressure and BMI. Results: Of the total population of 500 individuals, positive family history of cardiovascular disease (32%), lifestyle diseases such as hypertension (53.5%), diabetes mellitus (39.4%), undesirable body mass index (39%) were seen. Other risk factors include consumption of saturated fat (39%), high salt intake (64.6%), high stress levels (42%), insufficient sleep (47%) and sedentary lifestyle (35.4%). Harmful lifestyle behaviours like alcohol consumption (37.8%) and smoking (17%) were also prevalent. Conclusion: As the number of risk factors increases in a rural population, the probability of developing cardiovascular disease increases.