Prevalence and Determinants of Noncommunicable Disease Risk Factors Among the Santal Tribe Residing in Mayurbhanj District, Odisha, India

Understanding national trends in noncommunicable disease (NCD) risk factors may have health policy implications. We aimed to evaluate trends in the prevalence and correlates of eight risk factors for NCD from 2005 to 2019 in Mongolia. Cross-sectional data were analyzed from 9,356 individuals (15-64/69 yr, mean age=37.3 yr) who participated in the Mongolia STEPS 2005, 2009, 2013 or 2019 surveys and had complete measurement of the risk factor for NCD. The proportion of having 3-8 NCD risk factors significantly decreased from 59.1% in 2005 to 49.4% in 2019, and the mean number of NCD risk factors significantly decreased from 2.8 in 2005 to 2.6 in 2019. In linear regression analyses by study year, older age and male sex were across all study years positively associated with eight NCD risk factors. The prevalence of low physical activity increased from 8.2% in 2005 to 28.4% in 2019, overweight/obesity from 49.6% in 2005 to 64.0% in 2019, and raised total cholesterol from 23.9% in 2005 to 27.6% in 2019, there was a significant decrease in inadequate fruit and vegetable intake from 85.1% in 2005 to 79.5% in 2019, current smoking from 26.6% in 2005 to 24.1% in 2019, hypertension from 28.2% in 2005 to 23.2% in 2019, while the prevalence of diabetes remained unchanged from 2005 to 2019. The prevalence of eight risk factors for NCD decreased in the last 15 years in Mongolia. Several associated variables for eight and individual NCD risk factors were identified that can help guide interventions.

To determine the prevalence of non-communicable disease (NCD) risk factors, total NCD risk category and 10-year risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in financial sector employees. This descriptive observational cross-sectional analysis, data from 36,074 employees was analysed. NCD risk factor data was obtained from health risk assessments that included a questionnaire and clinical measures. The 10-year risk for CVD was calculated using the Framingham non-laboratory based equation. Inadequate fruit and vegetable intake (89.3%), insufficient physical activity (77.4%), and being overweight (66.8%) were the most prevalent risk factors. Women had significantly higher prevalence ratios for central obesity (2.28; P < 0.001), insufficient physical activity (1.21; P < 0.001), hypercholesterolaemia (1.15; P < 0.001), and overweight (1.08; P < 0.001) compared with men. A more concerted effort is required to provide employees with appropriate tools and education at the workplace to decrease and manage NCDs.

ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence of non-communicable disease (NCD) risk factors among nurses and para-health professionals (PHPs) working at primary healthcare centres in Bangladesh. In addition to this, we also investigated...

Background: Children and adolescents are more vulnerable to developing NCD (non communicable diseases) risk factors due to changing lifestyles. Hence it is essential to recognize NCD risk factors among adolescents. School plays an important role in imparting knowledge and shaping the behaviours and practices among children. This study focusses on the school related factors that may be influencing the NCD risk factors among adolescents.Methods: The study was conducted among 438 students, 13 to 15 years old of two central government schools in Delhi. A self-administered modified STEPS questionnaire, an observation checklist for assessing facilities at schools and an interview schedule for school staff were used to collect data.Results: The statistically significant determinants of inadequate fruits and vegetable intake and excess fast food intake were consumption of fast food from vendors selling food outside the school (OR=4.36), inadequate physical activity at school (OR=2.56) and feeling stressed at school (OR=2.93). Physical activity at school was an important determinant for overall physical activity of students (OR=2.38). Current tobacco use and current alcohol use was determined by feeling stressed at school (OR=3.12). Health education classes at school had a protective effect on the NCD risk factors.Conclusions: Many school related factors such as absence of playground at school, stressed life at school and vendors selling fast food outside school were seen to influence lifestyle risk factors amongst adolescents. Hence an active involvement of school by increasing health education classes and providing adequate facilities for physical activities may help in reducing the NCD risk factors among students.

Background: Risk factors of Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are increasing among Indian tribes. However, this issue remains unexplored in migrants of Odisha’s Santal tribe, in Bhubaneswar city. Objective: To assess the prevalence of behavioural and selected metabolic risk factors of NCDs among Santal migrants aged 18 to 69 years in Bhubaneswar. Methodology: A cross-sectional study involving 516 Santal migrants was conducted from September to December 2022 using the WHO STEPS survey questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were performed using R statistical software. Results: Prevalence of tobacco and alcohol use were 80% (95% CI: 76.3–83.3) and 81.8% (95% CI: 78.1–85.0), respectively with higher rates among males. Low physical activity was reported by 30.6% (95% CI: 26.7–34.8), commonly among females. 98.8% participants had inadequate fruit and vegetable intake. Hypertension was found in 40.3% (95% CI: 36.1–44.7), abdominal obesity in 33.5% and obesity in 28.5%. Conclusions: High prevalence of NCD risk factors was observed among Santal migrants with inadequate intake of fruits and vegetables, followed by alcohol and tobacco use being most prevalent. Male gender was independently linked to tobacco and alcohol use; age 45-69 years with alcohol use and low education with tobacco use. Culturally appropriate, community-based health promotion programs could be beneficial.

Background and objectiveUnhealthy lifestyle behaviours are important risk factors of morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to explore the sociodemographic predictors of multiple non-communicable disease (NCD) risk factors experienced by elderly South Africans.MethodsWe conducted a national population-based cross-sectional survey with a sample of 3,840 individuals aged 50 years or above in South Africa in 2008. The outcome variable was the co-existence of multiple NCD risk factors (tobacco use, alcohol, physical inactivity, fruit and vegetable intake, overweight or obesity, and hypertension) in each individual. The exposure variables were sociodemographic characteristics, namely, age, gender, education, wealth status, population group, marital status, and residence. Multivariate linear regression was used to assess the association between sociodemographic variables and multiple NCD risk factors.ResultsThe mean number of NCD risk factors among all participants was three (95% confidence interval: 2.81–3.10). Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that being female, being in the age group of 60–69 years, and being from the Coloured and Black African race were associated with a higher number of NCD risk factors. Marital status, educational level, wealth, and residence were not significantly associated with the number of NCD risk factors experienced.ConclusionsThe co-existence of multiple lifestyle NCD risk factors among the elderly is a public health concern. Comprehensive health-promotion interventions addressing the co-existence of multiple NCD risk factors tailored for specific sociodemographic groups are needed.

BackgroundDespite one-third of the urban population in Bangladesh living in urban slums and at increased risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), little is known about the NCD risk profile of this at-risk population. The aim of the study was to identify the prevalence of the NCD risk factors and the association of NCD risk factors with socio-demographic factors among the adults of urban slums in Dhaka, Bangladesh.MethodA cross-sectional study was conducted among adult slum dwellers (aged 25 and above) residing in three purposively selected urban slums of Dhaka for at least six months preceding the survey. The risk factors assessed were- currently smoking, fruit and vegetable intake, physical activity, hypertension and body mass index (BMI). Information on self-reported diabetes was also taken. A total of 507 participants (252 females; 49.7%) were interviewed and their physical measures were taken using the WHO NCD STEPS instrument.ResultThe overall prevalence of NCD risk factors was: 36.0% (95% CI: 31.82–40.41) for smoking; 95.60% (95% CI: 93.60–97.40) for insufficient fruit and vegetable intake; 15.30% (95% CI:12.12–18.71) for low physical activity;13.70% (95% CI: 10.71–16.92) for hypertension; 22.70% (95% CI: 19.31–26.02) for overweight or obesity; and 5.00% (95%: 3.20–7.00) for self-reported diabetes. In the logistic regression model, the clustering of three or more NCD risk factors was positively associated with younger age groups (p = 0.02), no formal education (p <0.001) and primary education level (p = 0.01), but did not differ by sex of the participants, monthly income and occupation.ConclusionAll NCD risk factors are markedly high among the urban slum adults. These findings are important to support the formulation and implementation of NCD-related polices and plan of actions that recognize urban slum populations in Bangladesh as a priority sub-population.

An increasing prevalence of non-communicable disease (NCD) risk factors in countries like India could pose a threat to the health and field capacities of forest staff. However, there is a lack of data globally about their NCD risks. Using data from preventive health checks conducted for forest staff at Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, in Maharashtra, Central India, this study assessed the feasibility of screening for NCD risk factors such as elevated glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C), abnormal lipid levels, use of tobacco and alcohol, high body mass index, high waist circumference, and elevated blood pressure. Follow-up surveys were conducted six months after preventive health interventions to collect details of health service utilization as well as feedback for the preventive health interventions. While reporting a high prevalence of NCD risk factors among forest staff – which could predispose them to cardiovascular disease – this study demonstrates that implementing workplace-based NCD screening interventions is feasible, effective, acceptable, and beneficial to forest staff. Key policy insights Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and associated risk factors may play an important role in the sustainability of conservation efforts. NCDs should be integrated as a key component of the One Health paradigm. Workplace-based interventions for prevention and screening of NCDs could provide a feasible and effective method to mitigate health inequalities faced by the conservation workforce. Collaborative efforts to address the health needs of conservation staff working in remote rural regions could help achieve mutually beneficial outcomes for human health and conservation.

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are on the rise in low- and middle-income countries. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and correlates of multiple NCD risk factors (inadequate fruit and vegetable intake, low physical activity, tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, diabetes, hypertension, raised total cholesterol and overweight/obesity) among adults in Sudan. We conducted a cross-sectional study using nationally representative data. The analytic cohort included 7,722 participants who were between the ages of 18-69 years old individuals (median age=36 years) that took part in the "2016 Sudan STEPS survey." In all, 34.2% had 0-1 NCD risk factor, 33.5% 2 risk factors, and 32.4% 3 or more NCD risk factors. In adjusted ordinal logistic regression analysis, the odds of having a higher count of NCD risk factors increased from 2.04 to 3.52 from the age group of 35-49 years to age group of 50-69 years when compared to the younger people aged 18-34 years. Men had higher odds (1.21) of higher NCD risk factor count than women. Individuals residing in urban areas had higher odds (1.86) of higher NCD risk factor count than individuals residing in rural areas. Almost one in three participants had three or more NCD risk factors and several associated variables were identified for men and women that can facilitate in designing intervention programmes.

Background Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) significantly contribute to the global disease burden, with fishing communities being particularly vulnerable due to occupational and lifestyle factors. This study assesses the NCD risk factor profile among the fishing community in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, India. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 415 participants, including fishermen and fisherwomen aged 18 years and older. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire for NCD risk factor assessment, and a multistage cluster sampling method was used. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS version 20.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). The chi-square test was used to assess associations between behavioral and sociodemographic risk factors with NCDs. Multivariable logistic regression was employed to identify significant predictors of NCDs. Results The mean age of participants was 51.3 ± 4.99 years, with 72.3% (300) men and 27.7% (115) women. Key behavioral risk factors included current tobacco use (28.7%), past tobacco use (58.1%), current alcohol use (56.6%), inadequate fruit and vegetable intake (88.9%), and inadequate sleep (90.1%). Hypertension was present in 57.8%of participants, overweight/obesity in 62.2%, and abdominal obesity in 93%. Significant predictors of hypertension included advancing age, past smoking, and inadequate sleep. Overweight/obesity was significantly higher among men, and abdominal obesity was strongly associated with past smoking. Conclusion The fishing community exhibited a high prevalence of NCD risk factors, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted interventions. Addressing behavioral risk factors, improving dietary habits, and promoting healthy physical activity and adequate sleep are crucial to reducing NCD risks. An integrated, community-based approach is recommended to enhance health outcomes in this marginalized population.

ObjectiveThe aim of the study is to estimate trends in the prevalence and associated factors of non-communicable disease (NCD) risk factors in adults from 2007 to 2020 in Cabo Verde.DesignPopulation-based...

BackgroundThe aim of this study is to assess the current status of non-communicable disease (NCD) risk factors amongst adolescents in Bangladesh. We also critically reviewed the existing policy responses to NCD risk among adolescents in Bangladesh.MethodsThis study used a mixed method approach. To quantify the NCD risk burden, we used data from the Global School-based Student Health Survey conducted in Bangladesh. To understand policy response, we reviewed NCD-related policy documents introduced by the Government of Bangladesh between 1971 and 2018 using the WHO recommended NCD Action Plan 2013–2020as study framework. Information from the policy documents was extracted using a matrix, mapping each document against the six objectives of the WHO 2013–2020 Action Plan.ResultsAlmost all adolescents in Bangladesh had at least one NCD risk factor, and there was a high prevalence of concurrent multiple NCD risk factors; 14% had one NCD risk factor while 22% had two, 29% had three, 34% had four or more NCD risk factors. Out of 38 policy documents, eight (21.1%) were related to research and/or surveys, eight (21.1%) were on established policies, and eleven (29%) were on legislation acts. Three policy documents (7.9%) were related to NCD guidelines and eight (21.1%) were strategic planning which were introduced by the government and non-government agencies/institutes in Bangladesh.ConclusionsThe findings emphasize the needs for strengthening NCD risk factors surveillance and introducing appropriate intervention strategies targeted to adolescents. Despite the Government of Bangladesh introducing several NCD-related policies and programs, the government also needs more focus on clear planning, implementation and monitoring and evaluation approaches to preventing NCD risk factors among the adolescents in Bangladesh.

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) account for nearly 75% of all deaths in Tamil Nadu. The government of Tamil Nadu has initiated several strategies to control NCDs under the Tamil Nadu Health Systems Reform Program (TNHSRP). We aimed to estimate the prevalence of NCD risk factors and determine the predictors of diabetes and hypertension, which will be helpful for planning and serve as a baseline for evaluating the impact of interventions. A state-wide representative cross-sectional study was conducted among 18-69-year-old adults in Tamil Nadu in 2020. The study used a multi-stage sampling method to select the calculated sample size of 5780. We adapted the study tools based on WHO's STEPS surveillance methodology. We collected information about sociodemographic factors, NCD risk factors and measured blood pressure and fasting capillary blood glucose. The predictors of diabetes and hypertension were calculated using generalised linear models with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Due to the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, we could cover 68% (n = 3800) of the intended sample size. Among the eligible individuals surveyed (n = 4128), we had a response rate of 92%. The mean age of the study participants was 42.8 years, and 51% were women. Current tobacco use was prevalent in 40% (95% CI: 33.7-40.0) of men and 7.9% (95% CI: 6.4-9.8) of women. Current consumption of alcohol was prevalent among 39.1% (95% CI: 36.4-42.0) of men. Nearly 28.5% (95% CI: 26.7-30.4) of the study participants were overweight, and 11.4% (95% CI: 10.1-12.7) were obese. The prevalence of hypertension was 33.9% (95% CI: 32.0-35.8), and that of diabetes was 17.6% (95% CI: 16.1-19.2). Older age, men, and obesity were independently associated with diabetes and hypertension. The burden of NCD risk factors like tobacco use, and alcohol use were high among men in the state of Tamil Nadu. The prevalence of other risk factors like physical inactivity, raised blood pressure and raised blood glucose were also high in the state. The state should further emphasise measures that reduce the burden of NCD risk factors. Policy-based and health system-based interventions to control NCDs must be a high priority for the state.

BackgroundThe aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and determinants of chronic non-communicable disease (NCD) risk factors in a rural community in the Limpopo Province of South Africa.MethodsThis survey was conducted using the WHO "STEPwise approach to the surveillance of non-communicable diseases" (STEPS) methodology. Participants were residents of the Dikgale HDSS site and standardised international protocols were used to measure behavioural risk factors (smoking, alcohol consumption, fruit and vegetable intake and, physical activity) and physical characteristics (weight, height, waist and hip circumferences and blood pressure–BP). Fasting blood glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol and HDL-C were determined in 732 participants. Data were analysed using STATA 12 for Windows.ResultsThe prevalence of current smokers amongst the participants was 13.7%, of which 81.3% were daily smokers. Alcohol was consumed by 16.3% of the participants. The majority of participants (88.6%) had low daily intake of fruit and vegetables and low physical activity (66.5%). The prevalence of hypertension amongst the participants was 38.2%. Overweight, obesity and high waist circumference were prevalent in females. The cardio-metabolic risk profile was not significantly different between men and women. People who were older than 40 years, overweight or obese and those who consumed alcohol were more likely to be hypertensive. Smoking was associated significantly with older age, males, never married and divorced people. Alcohol consumption was associated with older age, males, low educational status and low income.ConclusionHigh levels of risk factors for NCDs among adults in the Dikgale HDSS suggest an urgent need for health interventions to control these risk factors at the population level in order to reduce the prevalence of NCDs.

BackgroundBengaluru, a metropolis in Southern India, is one of the largest markets for cab aggregator companies. Drivers working for these companies play a vital role in urban transportation but unlike other drivers, their work pattern is stressful, which could increase their proneness to NCD risk factors. Understanding associations between work environment adversity and NCD risk factors among these drivers will help to plan specific health promotion and NCD prevention programs including provision of basic occupational health services.ObjectivesThe study aims to test for an association between work environment adversity and selected Non-communicable Disease (NCD) risk factors among Application Cab Aggregator drivers in Bengaluru city and to estimate the prevalence of selected NCD risk factors among the ABCA drivers.MethodologyThis cross-sectional study was conducted in Bengaluru city among 340 eligible and consenting ABCA drivers with at least one-year experience. Drivers were recruited through a multi-stage sampling procedure and time-period sampling, from transportation and leisure zones in the city. Data was collected through interviews using specifically developed semi-structured tools to assess work environment adversity and NCD risk factors. Prevalence of NCD risk factors is presented per 100 drivers with 95% confidence intervals. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis was conducted to quantify the strength of the association between work environment adversity categories and NCD risk factors. Ethical clearance was obtained from the NIMHANS Ethics Committee.ResultsNearly 97% of the 340 drivers reported having one or more NCD risk factors. Working more than 5 days a week, more than 7 + hours a day, staying away from family, and working night shifts were closely associated with higher risk for NCD risk factors among ABCA drivers. Drivers with work environment adversity scores between 5 and 10 were associated with higher odds of Physical Inactivity (OR = 3.1), Unhealthy diets (OR = 1.62), and Tobacco Use (OR = 3.06).ConclusionThe study highlights the association between work environment adversity and NCD risk factors and indicates a dire need for NCD prevention programs, basic occupational health services, and social security provisions for ABCA cab drivers.