Behavioural risk factors distribution of cardiovascular diseases and its association with normotension, prehypertension and hypertension amongst tea garden population in Dibrugarh district of Assam

Problem consideredThe burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in India is increasing at an alarming rate for the last few decades.AimsTo assess the distribution of behavioural risk factors of CVDs and its association with normotension, prehypertension and hypertension among tea garden population in Dibrugarh District of Assam.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study using the World Health Organizations (WHO) Stepwise methodology. A multistep random sampling was done to include adults aged 35 years and above. Data was collected using a pretested and predesigned questionnaire and blood pressure was recorded. Statistical analysis was done using proportions, chi-square test and multiple logistic regression (MLR) analysis.ResultsPrevalence of hypertension was 44.8% (551) with 481 (39.1%) being pre hypertensive. Prevalence of tobacco use was 1107 (89.9%) with 1049 (85.2%) being current users while alcohol use was 858 (69.7%). Inadequate intake of green leafy vegetables (≤3 servings/week) was found in 807 (65.6%) and fruits in 1210 (98.3%). Weekly intake of high energy food was found in 176 (58.66%) while added salt intake in 758 (61.6%), Physical inactivity (mainly sedentary) in 339 (27.5%). MLR analysis showing significant association between educational status, stress, high energy food, tobacco use, alcohol, overweight/obesity and diabetes with prehypertension and physical activity, high energy food, tobacco use, alcohol, extra salt and diabetes with hypertension.ConclusionsThe study revealed high prevalence of various risk factors. There is a need to reduce the risk factor prevalence of CVD to address the future epidemic of non-communicable disease amongst this group.