Risk Factors For Non-communicable Diseases Research Articles

Multiple behavioral risk factors for non-communicable diseases among the adolescent population in Brazil: the analysis derived from the Brazilian national survey of school health 2019

BackgroundHealth risk behaviors often emerge or intensify during adolescence and tend to co-occur, exposing individuals to an even greater risk for the development of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The likelihood of exhibiting multiple health risk factors also increases throughout life and is associated with sociodemographic characteristics contributing to their escalation and severity. In this context, the objective of this study was to analyze the association between sociodemographic characteristics and multiple behavioral risk factors for non-communicable diseases among the adolescent population in Brazil.MethodsThis cross-sectional study utilized data from the Brazilian National Survey of School Health 2019. The sample comprised 121,580 adolescents aged 13 to 17. The analyzed variables included irregular intake of fruits and vegetables, regular consumption of soft drinks and treats, insufficient physical activity, sedentary lifestyle, cigarette smoking, and alcohol consumption. To analyze MBRFs, a classification ranging from zero to five was created, and associations were estimated using Odds Ratio (OR) with the respective 95% confidence interval (CI). The Backward method was employed for the multivariate regression model, utilizing ordinal logistic regression.ResultsAdolescents without behavioral risk factors for NCDs constituted only 3.9% (95% CI 3.7–4.1). The most prevalent categories were two and three MBRFs, accounting for 28.3% (95% CI: 27.7–28.8) and 27.0% (95% CI: 26.5–27.5), respectively. Adolescents aged 16 and 17 (ORadj: 1.39; 95% CI: 1.32–1.48), residing in the Brazilian Southeast (ORadj: 1.66; 95% CI: 1.52–1.81), and those reporting poor or very poor self-rated health (ORadj: 2.05; 95% CI: 1.87–2.25) were more likely to exhibit multiple behavioral risk factors. Conversely, male adolescents (adjusted OR: 0.65; 95% CI: 0.62–0.69), those of mixed race (adjusted OR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.87–0.97), and residents of rural areas (adjusted OR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.70–0.84) were less likely to manifest MBRFs for NCDs.ConclusionThe majority of adolescents displayed MBRFs for NCDs, positively associated with age, region, and perceived health status. This underscores the necessity for healthcare promotional interventions throughout the life cycle, as these behaviors may persist into adulthood.

Co-occurrence of non-communicable disease risk factors among adolescents in Jos, Nigeria.

The co-occurrence and clustering of risk factors for non-communicable disease (NCD) is a global public health concern. This study aimed to assess the co-occurrence and clustering of risk factors for NCDs among in-school and out-of-school adolescents in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State, Nigeria. Secondary schools and markets in Jos North Local Government Area. A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 377 in-school and 377 out-of-school adolescents, aged 10-19 years of age. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect information on behavioural and physical risk factors for NCDs. Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests were used for comparisons at a 5% level of significance. Statistical analysis was carried out using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 23.0. Of the 754 sampled adolescents, 386 (51.2%) were females and 368 (48.8%) were males. Adolescents aged 10-14 years made up 37.8% of the participants, 15 to 17 years of age accounted for 46.9% and 18-19 years 15.3%. Risk factors with the highest prevalence were a sedentary lifestyle (94.2%) and an unhealthy diet (92.4%). Majority (97.2%) had two or more risk factors while 1.9% of adolescents had no risk factor. More in-school adolescents (24.1%) had two risk factors compared to 14.1% of out-of-school adolescents (p 0.001); 14.1% of out-of-school adolescents had five or more risk factors compared to 2.9% of those in school (p 0.001). Co-occurrence and clustering of behavioural and physical risk factors was found among both in-school and out-of-school adolescents.Contribution: This study highlighted the burden of risk factors for NCDs among both in-school and out-of-school adolescents in the North-Central part of Nigeria. This is especially useful in developing targeted interventions to tackle these risk factors.

A cluster randomized controlled trial of a brief positive healthy eating intervention.

Excessive sugar intake poses a significant risk factor for non-communicable diseases. A positive healthy eating (PHE) intervention was developed to promote low-sugar dietary practices in families. The PHE intervention capitalized on positive psychological constructs to overcome barriers to health behavior change by helping families associate feelings of joy, gratitude, and savoring with healthy eating. In a cluster randomized controlled trial, 1983 participants from 1467 families were recruited in Hong Kong. PHE included a core and booster session. Data were collected at pre-intervention, post-intervention, and at 1-month and 3-month follow-up. Compared to the control, PHE showed greater increase in intention to change at post-intervention, engagement in low-sugar dietary practices individually and with family members at 3-month follow-up, and greater reduction in sugar-sweetened beverage intake at 1-month and 3-month follow-up. Intentions to change mediated PHE's effects on low-sugar dietary practices. Focus group interviews revealed the behavior-change process and family quality of life.

Substance Use Among People Seeking Health Care Services in Primary Health Care Settings in Coastal Karnataka

Background: Patients with substance use disorders are common in general medical practice and are a major risk factor for several non-communicable diseases. Appropriate screening is a vital step for providing brief interventions which can provide a good opportunity to tackle this crisis and in achieving target 3.5 of the sustainable development goal which includes strengthening the prevention and treatment of substance abuse. Objectives: To study the magnitude of substance use and factors associated with it among people seeking health care services at primary care settings. Methods: The cross-sectional study recruited people seeking services at primary care settings to screen for substance users (SU) and determine the associated factors. The data was collected using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire including socio-demographic characteristics, health status and the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test tool. Results: The study showed that 43.4% of the participants were SU. The current use of smokeless tobacco was higher compared to tobacco smoking (21.3% and 4.7%). The multivariate logistic regression showed that advancing age (AOR: 2.61 and 95% CI of 1.01–6.79), male gender (AOR: 705 and 95% CI of 4.25–11.70), primary and middle school (AOR: 3.24 and 95% CI of 1.52–6.92) literacy status, unemployed (AOR: 0.49 and 95% CI of 0.25–0.95), religion and other backward caste (AOR: 2.42 and 95% CI of 1.37–4.30) were significant correlates of SU. Conclusion: Substance use was reported by two-fifths of the participants seeking services at primary care centres in our study and stresses the need for incorporating brief interventions to prevent higher degrees of dependence and its complications.

Noncommunicable diseases behavioural risk factors among secondary school adolescents in Urban Cameroon

Adolescence is a crucial period for noncommunicable disease (NCD) risk factors, and interventions to reduce the NCD burden must target this age group. This study aimed to evaluate the NCD behavioural risk factors in adolescents attending state secondary schools in an urban setting in Cameroon. We conducted a cross-sectional survey using adapted structured questionnaires to assess the prevalence and correlates of NCD behavioural risk factors among adolescents attending selected urban state secondary schools in Douala IV, one of the six subdivisions in Douala, Cameroon. Of the 645 students who completed the study questionnaires, half of them did not have adequate knowledge about NCDs and their risk factors. Only 20% met recommended physical activity levels, nearly half lived sedentary lifestyles, and only 7% ate a healthy diet. Almost half of all participants reported drinking alcohol during the month, while 3% reported cigarette smoking. Participants with inadequate knowledge of NCDs were more likely to have elevated blood pressure values, and males had increased odds of high blood pressure. Contrarily, being male appeared to be protective against overweight and obesity. The odds of being sedentary decreased with age, and the odds of alcohol drinking seemed to grow with a higher maternal level of education. Our survey shows inadequate knowledge about NCDs and a high prevalence of NCD behavioural risk factors in adolescents in urban state secondary schools in Cameroon. These findings predict a higher NCD burden in future adults in the country, reinforcing the need for urgent public health interventions, especially regarding knowledge and sedentary living. Further research is needed to establish the transition of adolescent risk factors to adult disease through life course approaches in these settings.

The Italian National Institute of Health helpline to quit tobacco and nicotine dependence: 20 years of activity.

Tobacco use is one of the world's leading preventable causes of death and is a major preventable risk factor of non-communicable diseases. Although smokers are aware of the health risks, their attempts to quit often fail, primarily due to the strong nicotine and/or tobacco dependence. Antismoking helplines have become an integral part of tobacco control efforts in many countries. In Italy, the ISS Antismoking Helpine is active since 2000. The professional staff of the ISS Antismoking Helpline have gathered socio-demographic and smoking-related data via an electronic form, related to the received calls. The collected data have been processed in a dedicated database and analyzed to monitor the use and the quality of the service. In this study, a descriptive statistical analysis was conducted to inform about the activity of the helpline over the years. From May 2003 to June 2023 the helpline received 99,423 calls. Most smokers called to receive "support to quit" (82.6%). Counselling was provided in 11.4% of cases, and in the last two years has been strongly increased (40.0% of cases). The percentage of users requesting information on emerging tobacco and nicotine products is 1.2%, even if in 2023 this percentage has risen significantly (6.0%). Two legislative measures (in 2012 and in 2016) required to add the helpline number to all packets of tobacco cigarettes. Accordingly, the offer of counselling increased from 2.6% to 12.2%. The available resources in tobacco control, including the helpline, are still not sufficient to meet all the users needs. Adequate policies and stable funding to fight tobacco and nicotine dependence need increased commitment from government institutions to ensure equal access to treatments for all Italian citizens.

Kharameh cohort study (KHCS) on non-communicable diseases and preliminary findings of 3-year follow-up

PurposeThe Kharameh cohort study (KHCS) is one branch of the ‘Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies in Iran’, located in the south of Iran. The enrolment phase of KHCS spanned from April...

Assessing literacy on the interconnection between non-communicable diseases and climate change among youth in Nairobi, Kenya: An interventional study

This study investigates the efficacy of mixed-method educational interventions in enhancing literacy levels among youth in Nairobi concerning the intricate relationship between climate change and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The education methods used in this study included a continuous trainer-of-the-trainer approach, and peer learning combined with digital health interventions including the NCDs 365 App and the NCDs for Public Health Online course. Utilizing a rigorous methodology, the study engaged 70 participants at baseline and 65 at endline, with a minimal attrition rate. The study focused on key indicators, including literacy levels, positive behavioral changes, and the integration of digital health technologies. Results indicate a commendable increase in literacy levels, with 95.4% of respondents accurately recognizing NCDs at the endline, compared to 81.4% at baseline. Positive shifts were evident in the understanding of examples and major risk factors of NCDs. Climate change awareness notably improved, with 76.9% defining it as a long-term shift in weather patterns at the endline, compared to 44.3% at baseline. The association between climate change and NCDs was acknowledged by 86.2% at endline, up from 57.1% at baseline. Attitudinal and behavioral changes were prominent, as 95.4% expressed intent to participate in NCDs and climate change activities at the endline, compared to 81.4% at baseline. Digital health technologies demonstrated substantial engagement, with 87.7% downloading the NCD365 app. Further, 93.8% enrolled in the online course, and 75.4% frequently used the NCD365 app. Encouragingly, 94.7% would recommend the app to friends. The study concludes that educational interventions significantly enhance knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to climate change and NCDs among youth in Nairobi. Recommendations include expanding similar initiatives, incorporating interactive elements, and continuous monitoring for long-term impact assessment. This research contributes pivotal insights to addressing 21st-century challenges through targeted education and technological integration.

A Study to Assess the Knowledge on Modifiable Risk Factors for Non-communicable Diseases among Adults Attending Out Patient Department of Selected Urban Health Centre

Non communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading global causes of death, causing more deaths than all others cause combined, and they strike hardest at the world's low- and middle-income populations. The study aim was to assess the knowledge on modifiable risk factors for non-communicable diseases among adults in selected urban community, Navsari. and develop an information booklet regarding non communicable diseases. Non-experimental, descriptive research design was adopted to collect the data. Simple random sampling technique was used with the sample size of 300. Modifiable risk factors for non-communicable diseases were assessed by using checklist as risk assessment Performa including to self-structured method for knowledge questionnaire to know the level of knowledge regarding modifiable risk factor for non-communicable disease. Out of 300 sample 35.33% of adults had inadequate knowledge, 61.33% of the adults had moderate knowledge and only 3.33% adults were having adequate knowledge regarding modifiable risk factors for non-communicable diseases among adults. Conclusion: Critical prevalence of risk factors for non-communicable diseases among adults with poor knowledge on modifiable risk factors for non-communicable diseases.

Perspective: Mexico’s Experience in Building a Toolkit for Obesity and Noncommunicable Diseases Prevention

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, with a higher risk of death in low- and middle-income countries. Diet and excess weight are risk factors for NCDs. In Mexico, the prevalence of overweight and obesity increased dramatically in the last 30 y and is among the highest in the world. To address this public health problem, governments and public health professionals have several policy instruments available. In this study, we present the policy instruments currently approved in Mexico, which include fiscal, informational, and authoritative tools that aim to improve the food environment and promote healthy behaviors (taxes, school food guidelines, front-of-pack labeling, marketing regulations, and dietary guidelines). These types of interventions are important in regions like Latin America, where social inequities and poor access to information are common, and individual healthy choices are often limited. These interventions target the environments in which individuals live, study, work, and seek entertainment, while limiting access to unhealthy choices and offering information to promote healthy alternatives. The Mexican experience in design, implementation, and evaluation of policies to improve the food environment can be useful for other low- and middle-income countries facing similar challenges.

Assessment of Sexual Health and Use of Cervical Cancer Screening among the Female Working Population.

Cervical cancer occupies a significant place in the overall structure of morbidity and mortality in developing countries. We focused on the sexual health and use of cervical cancer screening among the female working population of reproductive age in Central Serbia. The research was conducted as a cross-sectional study, according to the methodology Stepwise approach to noncommunicable disease risk factor surveillance WHO. The study population consisted of 1182 female working population aged 18-49 years, living on the territory of Central Serbia. The method of simple random sampling was utilized in the research itself. An anonymous standardized questionnaire was used as a research tool. During the first sexual intercourse, 38.9% of the participants reported not having used any of the contraceptives, whereas 74.5% of the participants reported not having used them during their last sexual intercourse and 26.1% of the respondents reported not having had a single Pap smear in their lifetime. The multivariate logistic regression analysis singled out the following factors in women who reported not having done a Pap smear in their lifetime as the most significant ones: age - the youngest age group (OR = 3.30, CI = 1.80-6.04), unemployment (OR = 2.87, CI = 0.07-3.40), women who had never been married or had never been in a common-law marriage (OR = 2.55, CI = 1.40-4.66) and individuals with a medium education level (OR = 2.63, CI = 1.67-4.14). In Serbia, all the activities should be directed towards increasing the levels of awareness and knowledge on sexual health and cervical cancer screening services.

Risk factors of non communicable diseases among recently diagnosed diabetic patients in a tertiary care Hospital

There are many risk factors which determine the development of complications among diabetic patients, some of which are modifiable and some non modifiable. Further, taking care of risk factors and controlling other non-communicable diseases among diabetics will defer the complications due to diabetes.To look for distribution of non-communicable disease risk factors among the diabetic patients. : The present cross-sectional study was conducted in Government Medical College & Hospital Jammu from 2019 to 2020. All the recently diagnosed patients (<1 year duration) of type 2 DM who were of ≥ 18 years of age, both males and females and were willing to participate in the study were included. Overall 70 recently diagnosed diabetic patients both males and females attended outpatient department of General Medicine of the Associated Hospital of the college during the study period.: The mean age in study group was 48.9±11.78 years [30-75] years with a mean BMI of 24.3±3.28 kg/m. 22 patients [31.4%] were smokers; hypertension was seen in 13 patients [18.6%]; hypothyroidism in 4 patients [5.7%]; rheumatoid arthritis in 2 patients [2.9%] and epilepsy in 2 patients [2.9%]. Family history of diabetes was present in 29 patients [41.4%] and dyslipidemia in 12 patients [17.1%]. 31 patients [44.3%] had normal glycemic control with Hba1c of less than 7 while as 39 patients [55.7%] had poor glycemic control with Hba1c of greater than 7.: Significant proportion of the participants in our study had one or more risk factor present the development of a chronic disease or where suffering already from a non-communicable disease.

Empowering Health: Revolutionizing Care for Non-Communicable and Neurodegenerative Diseases in Diverse Pakistani Communities through Adapted Physical Activity and Physical Therapy

Background: Physical inactivity is a major modifiable risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and neurodegenerative diseases, impacting global health significantly. In Pakistan, these health challenges are exacerbated by disparities in health awareness and access between urban and rural communities. Objective: This study aims to investigate the awareness and utilization of adapted physical activity and physical therapy as a treatment for NCDs and neurodegenerative diseases in Pakistani communities, with a focus on understanding the influence of educational background and geographical location. Methods: An exploratory mixed-methods design was utilized, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. A total of 500 participants (250 from urban and 250 from rural areas) were recruited using a convenience sampling method. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires, focusing on demographics, awareness levels, and barriers to accessing adapted physical activity and physical therapy. Qualitative data were gathered via in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Statistical analyses included paired t-tests and ANOVA to examine differences based on educational levels and geographic location. Results: The study revealed a balanced gender distribution (50% male and 50% female). Significant differences in awareness and utilization based on educational background were observed, with mean scores for "PTA_Rural - Education" at 49.488 (SD = 28.976) and "PTA_Urban - Education" at 47.880 (SD = 29.447), both with p-values of .000. ANOVA results indicated significant differences in the means for variables such as "PTA_NCD_Kits" (p = 0.032), "PTA_Treatment" (p = 0.020), and "PTA_Neurodegenerative" (p = 0.01), suggesting variations in treatment approaches and knowledge regarding NCDs and neurodegenerative diseases across different groups. Conclusion: The study highlights the impact of educational background and geographic location on the awareness and utilization of adapted physical activity and physical therapy in Pakistani communities. These findings underscore the need for targeted health interventions and educational programs to address the disparities in health service accessibility and effectiveness in rural and urban areas. Keywords: Non-Communicable Diseases, Neurodegenerative Diseases, Adapted Physical Activity, Physical Therapy, Health Awareness, Pakistan, Education, Rural and Urban Health Disparities.

Co-occurrence of behavioural risk factors fornon-communicable diseases among 40-year and above aged community members in three regions of Myanmar.

Risky behaviours such as smoking, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity and inadequate consumption of fruits and vegetables are known contributing factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) which account for 74% of global mortality. Such behavioural risk factors co-occur frequently resulting in synergistic action for developing NCD related morbidity and mortality. This study aims to assess the existence of multiple risk behaviours and determine the socio-economic and demographic factors associated with co-occurrence of behavioural risks among Myanmar adult population. Data were collected, in the context of the SUNI-SEA project (Scaling Up NCD interventions in Southeast Asia), from 660 community members aged 40 years and above of both sexes, residing in selected urban and rural areas from Ayeyawaddy, Yangon and Mandalay regions of Myanmar. The co-occurrence of behavioural risk factors was presented as percentage with 95% CI and its determinants were identified by multinomial logistic regression. The co-occurrence of two risk behaviours and three or four risk behaviours were found in 40% (95% CI: 36.2%, 43.9%) and 10.8% (95% CI: 8.5%, 13.4%) respectively. Urban residents, men, participants without formal schooling and unemployed persons were more likely to exhibit co-occurrence of two risk behaviors and three or four risk behaviours. The current study shows high prevalence of co-occurrence of behavioural risk factors among Myanmar adults in the study area. NCD prevention and control programs emphasizing management of behavioural risks should be intensively promoted, particularly directed towards multiple behavioural risk factors, and not focused on individual factors only.

A Cross-Sectional Study on Physical Activity Patterns and Dietary Habits of a Nursing College Students in Central Karnataka

Introduction: Nutritional habits and physical activity influence the health status of young adults. Noncommunicablediseases (NCDs) such as obesity and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the major humanhealth problems of 21st century. NCD risk factors like sedentary lifestyle, increased consumption of diet richin sugar, fats and salt, tobacco and alcohol consumption are increasingly found among youth. Having properdietary habits (nutritional behaviour) and moderate physical exercise are the best methods for reducingCVD risk.Objectives: To assess patterns of physical activity and dietary habits followed by students studying at a nursingcollege in Chitradurga.Methodology: It was a cross-sectional study. Assessments, by questionnaire, included daily food intake, frequencyof consuming foodstuffs with an adequate nutritional value and evaluating adverse dietary habits and types ofphysical activity undertaken.Results: 175 students participated in the study. Physical activities of moderate and vigorous intensity werefollowed by 65.7% and 65.1% students respectively. Foods with good nutritional value were consumed in lesserquantities. 14.9% consumed < 1 vegetable serving/day, 38.3% consumed < 1 fruit serving / week. There werestudents who did not consume vegetables (8%) or fruits (14.9%) at all. Higher frequencies (2-6 days/week) ofconsumption of junk food (12.6%) and soft drinks (10.3%) were found.Conclusion: It is an encouraging fact to know that students were involved in moderate or vigorous physicalactivities on regular basis. Whereas healthy dietary practice was less and consumption of junk food and softdrinks was more. Present study highlights areas of nutritional concerns that must be addressed to bringabout reduction in proportion of modifiable risk factors of NCDs among youth in health care professionalcourses.

Prevalence and the factors associated with microalbuminuria among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and/or hypertension in the urban areas of Puducherry district: a cross-sectional study.

Microalbuminuria is an early indicator for renal and cardiovascular diseases, especially among patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HTN). We determined the prevalence and the factors associated with microalbuminuria among patients with type 2 DM and/or HTN in the urban areas of the Puducherry district in India. We included 225 patients aged 40-69 years with DM and/or HTN from a non-communicable diseases (NCDs) survey conducted during 2019-2020 in the urban areas of Puducherry district. The prevalence of microalbuminuria and various biological risk factors of NCDs were assessed as per the WHO STEPS methodology. The prevalence of microalbuminuria was presented as proportions (95% CI), and the adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) was estimated using weighted forward stepwise generalized linear modelling. P-value ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. The mean (SD) age of the patients was 54 (11) years. Over one-third (38.2%) (95% CI: 31.6-44.4) of patients with DM and/or HTN had microalbuminuria. The prevalence was highest among those having both DM and HTN 48% (95% CI: 37-59), followed by those having only DM 40.6% (95% CI: 29-52.2) and only HTN 27.7% (95% CI: 18.1-38.6). The prevalence of microalbuminuria was twice (aPR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.1-3.9) higher among women and 2.4 times (95% CI: 1.12-5.1) higher among those having both DM and HTN as compared to those with only HTN. The prevalence of microalbuminuria among patients with DM and/or HTN is concerningly high. Population-based screening for microalbuminuria, especially among women and those having both DM and HTN, needs to be undertaken in the urban areas of Puducherry district.

Cardiovascular disease risk factor prevalence among police officials: findings from a cross-sectional study in Kerala, India.

Police officials' stressful and physically demanding activities reportedly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study explored the prevalence of CVD risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and overweight among police officials in Kerala, India. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 255 police officials in selected police stations in the Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala. The World Health Organization STEPs questionnaire for noncommunicable disease risk factor surveillance was used to collect information. We collected STEP 1 (demographics, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, physical activity, and diet) and STEP 2 (weight, height, and blood pressure) data. Multivariable analysis was done to identify factors associated with hypertension. The mean age of participants was 42years (range: 30-55years) and the majority were men (83.5%). Current use of tobacco or alcohol was reported by 22.7% of the participants. The prevalence of overweight was 64.7% and physical inactivity was 35.1%. Self-reported prevalence of diabetes was 7.5% and of hyperlipidemia was 11.4%. Hypertension prevalence was 40.4%. Among hypertensives, 35.9% were aware, 20.4% were treated, and 5.8% had controlled blood pressure. The control rate was 28.6% among treated hypertensives. When controlling for age, diabetes (odds ratio [OR]: 3.57; 95% CI: 1.16-10.90), and overweight (OR: 1.88; 95% CI: 1.06-3.35) participants were more likely to have hypertension compared with their counterparts. Police officers have a high prevalence of significant CVD risk factors such as hypertension, physical inactivity, and being overweight. These findings reinforce the need for interventions addressing the above risk factors to prevent CVD in this population.

Protocol for the CHINT study: a cross-sectional observational study of risk factors for cancer and other non-communicable diseases in the Chinese community of Milan

IntroductionThe Chinese community in Italy is the largest in Europe. The area of Milan hosts the largest Chinese Italian community—about 41 000 people. Since little is known of the health...

A community-based study on risk factor profile for non-communicable diseases in rural field practice area of medical college, Kolkata

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are emerging as the leading cause of mortality and disability-adjusted life-year loss in India, accounting for over 42% of all deaths. The leading risk factors for NCDs are tobacco use, harmful alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, raised blood pressure (BP), obesity, and an unhealthy diet including high salt intake. Regular studies in these domains are required to plan and implement preventive strategies. Aims and Objectives: (1) To explore the prevalence of different risk factors for NCDs among adults residing in rural field practice areas of Medical College, Kolkata. (2) To find the relation (if any) between sociodemographic profile and risk factors among the study population. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 148 adults selected by a simple random sampling method in December 2022 and January 2023 in a rural area of West Bengal using a pre-designed, pre-tested, semi-structured interview schedule based on the World Health Organization steps approach. Analysis was done by SPSS, version 20, and ethical approval was taken. Results: The mean age was 34.01 years (SD ± 11.18). Among male study participants, 50% used smoking tobacco, 22.22% used non-smoking tobacco (multiple responses present), and 24.07% took alcohol in the past month. Tobacco and alcohol intake was significantly lower among female participants. Abdominal obesity was higher in men (31.48%). 16.2% of participants always added extra salt to their diet. Physical inactivity was more common in females (35.10%). Among study participants who checked BP (72.3%), 21.49% had high BP, and those who checked blood sugar levels (54.1%), 25% had a high blood sugar level. Conclusion: The majority of the participants had more than one NCD risk factor. The results highlight the need for interventions and approaches for the prevention of risk factors for NCDs in rural areas.

Prevalence of Risk Factors of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Among Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in the Intensive Area of Rayagada District of Odisha, India

The tribal population in India too have high rates of hypertension and other risk factors of NCDs. Rayagada district, situated in the southern part of Odisha is home to diversified communities including scheduled castes and scheduled tribes with about 57% of the tribal population. It’s hard-to-reach scattered geographical areas, most of these populations remain inaccessible to various benefits, information, education and communication activities. The study was a cross-sectional study conducted after the intuitional ethical approval. The study duration was from 1st May to 30th June 2022. A systematic random sampling method was used to collect the data from a calculated sample size of 3600 individuals. A predesigned and pretested questionnaire containing four sections used to collect the required data. The study tool was incorporated in Epicollect 5.0 and data was collected through android phones. A total of 3625 individuals were interviewed with 60.5% female subjects. Most (98%) were married and belonged to Hindu religion (97%). Majority (98%) of the respondents were BPL card holders. About 57 % were chewing tobacco and 26% were alcoholic. The prevalence of diabetes and hypertension was 2 % and 20 % respectively. More than 80% were physically active, 28% were under weight and 9 % were overweight. The education level was found to be very low that may be responsible for poor food choices. Higher tobacco consumption in the tribal community has a deleterious effect and more chances of getting non-communicable diseases.