Magnitude of behavioural risk factors for cardiovascular diseases among college going young adults (18-25 years) in Mysuru, Karnataka, India

Lakshmi Malavika Nair; Madhu B.; Srinath K. M.; Anup Gopinath; Kavita Yadav

doi:10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20164713

Authors

Lakshmi Malavika Nair Final year MBBS student, JSS Medical College, JSS University, Mysuru, Karnataka, India
Madhu B. Department of Community Medicine, JSS Medical College, JSS University, Mysuru, Karnataka, India
Srinath K. M. Department of General Medicine, JSS Medical College, JSS University, Mysuru, Karnataka, India
Anup Gopinath Department of Community Medicine, PK Das Institute of Medical Sciences, Vaniamkulam, Kerala, India
Kavita Yadav Consultant Research Associate, Centre for Policy Research, Chanakyapuri, Dharam Marg, New Delhi, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20164713

Keywords:

Behavioural risk factors, Cardiovascular risk factors, Mysuru, Young adults

Abstract

Background: Sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy diet patterns increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Estimating the magnitude of behavioural risk factors is vital for planners and policy makers to formulate appropriate and locally suitable interventions. The objective of this study was to estimate the magnitude and pattern of behavioural risk factors for cardiovascular diseases among college students (medical, dental, pharmacy, engineering and arts and science colleges) in Mysuru.

Methods:A cross sectional study was carried out among students of medical, dental, pharmacy, engineering and arts and science colleges in Mysuru using snow-balling technique. Based on CDC-BRFSS (Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System) and Cardiovascular Risk Assessment Questionnaire developed by Metagenics, New Zealand, a self-administered questionnaire was developed according to the local cultural and food practices , which was used to collect information on dietary pattern, exercise pattern, tobacco and alcohol consumption. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 22) and P value of <0.05 was considered as significant.

Results: In the study, 45.8% of 970 study participants lead a sedentary lifestyle and 13.1% exercise in the gym regularly. Majority of students from Arts and Science College lead a sedentary lifestyle. Dietary pattern assessment revealed that 71% of the students consumed fried food frequently (highest among medical students - 82.4%). Medical and dental students also consumed the maximum amount of sweets i.e. 60.9% and 67.1% respectively. Non-vegetarian food was frequently consumed by 30% of medical and dental students.47% of the current smokers were MBBS students. 37.8% of the students who consumed alcohol admitted to binge drinking.

Conclusions:Unhealthy behavioural risk factors for CVDs are higher among medical students, despite the fact that they know most about the detrimental effects of these practices. Developing strategies targeting these behavioural risk factors to improve the health status of college students play a crucial role in protecting the youth from cardiovascular diseases in future.