ASSESSING THE PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES IN THE AGE GROUP 18-30 YEARS

Abstract

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases, once considered conditions of the elderly people, are rapidly increasing and affecting young population, specifically in developing countries like Pakistan because of underdeveloped infrastructure of health facilities. This early onset is a serious concern to address because of its contribution in the premature problems that can lead to increase in CVD mortality rates. Objectives: To determine the relationship between early onset of cardiovascular diseases and its risk factors, to identify their prevalence in the age group 18-30 and to develop public health recommendations in reducing the risk in young population. Methodology: This, cross-sectional, study analyzed the prevalence and risk factors of cardiovascular diseases among 119 participants of age range between 18-30 in Punjab institute of cardiology, Pakistan. Data collection was done using a structured questionnaire wrapping up demographic, lifestyle and family histories of consented participants. The prevalence was calculated by the proportion of individuals with confirmed diagnosis of any cardiovascular disease in this age group. Analysis of data was done using SPSS with descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Results presented a prevalence of 1.95% (~2%). Major risk factors involved were family history, high stress levels, smoking including both active and passive, disturbed sleep, poor dietary intake. Surprisingly, inverse relationships were indicated between CVD diagnosed individuals and BMI, diabetes, hyperlipidemia and baseline significance with hypertension. Significant associations were found between CVD and smoking, sleep, stress, inadequate diet, family history (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study emphasized urgent need of the early prevention strategies, health education campaigns for targeted young population, projects to reduce the burden of these risk factors in the young population of Pakistan.