Abstract
BackgroundModifiable risk factors of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) have their triggers in the neighborhood environments of communities. Studying the environmental triggers for CVD risk factors is important to understand the situation in a broader perspective. Young adults are influenced the most by the environment profile around them hence it is important to study this subset of the population.MethodsThis was a descriptive study conducted using the EPOCH research tool designed by the authors of the PURE study. The study population consisted of young adults aged 18-25 in two areas of Karachi. The study setting was busy shopping malls frequented by young adults in the particular community being studied.ResultsOur total sample size was 120 individuals, who consented to be interviewed by our interviewers. Less than 50% of the population recognized some form of restriction regarding smoking in their communities. The largest contributor to tobacco advertising was actors smoking in movies and TV shows with 89% responses from both communities. Only 11.9% of the individuals disapproved of smoking cigarettes among men with wide acceptance of ‘sheesha’ across all age groups. Advertising for smoking and junk food was more frequent as compared to smoking cessation, healthy diet and exercise in both the areas. Unhealthy food items were more easily available in contrast to healthier options. The cost of healthy snack food options including vegetables and fruits was higher than sugary drinks and foods.ConclusionThis assessment showed that both communities were exposed to environments that promote risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.
Highlights
11.9% of the individuals disapproved of smoking cigarettes among men with wide acceptance of ‘sheesha’ across all age groups
Advertising for smoking and junk food was more frequent as compared to smoking cessation, healthy diet and exercise in both the areas
The cost of healthy snack food options including vegetables and fruits was higher than sugary drinks and foods. This assessment showed that both communities were exposed to environments that promote risk factors for cardiovascular diseases
Summary
World Health Organization reports that 36 million deaths occurred due to non communicable diseases [NCDs],(principally cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer and chronic respiratory diseases) in 2008 which represents 63% of the worldwide mortality in that year. Acute MI occurs at ages 5 years younger in South Asian region compared to other countries.[2] ncds account for 59% of the total disease burden in Pakistan with cardiovascular disease representing the largest share followed by chronic respiratory diseases, cancer and diabetes reflecting a large number of lives lost due to ill-health, disability (DALYS), and early death. Legislative, and physical domains and ecological settings within a community and the place of residence may potentially influence perception, awareness and health behaviors in relation to CVD risk factors (e.g. Smoking, diet, and physical activity) within populations. These domains include workplace smoking cessation programmes, smokefree bars and restaurants and opportunities for engaing in physical activity in environmental such as availability of built amenities for recereation. Young adults are influenced the most by the environment profile around them it is important to study this subset of the population
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