Cardiovascular Disease Risk Profile and Risk Prediction Among Unskilled Workers of a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital

ABSTRACT

Background: The prevalence of CVD risk factors in India is steadily increasing moreover CVD in Indians has been shown to occur prematurely. The study was designed to estimate the 10-year cardiovascular risk using region specific WHO/ISH risk prediction chart among unskilled workers of a tertiary care teaching hospital and to determine factors associated with risk. Material and methods: This was a hospital based cross sectional study conducted among 250 workers selected by simple random sampling. Using structured questionnaire, life style related risk factors name-ly, average daily consumption of fruits and vegetables, physical activity, perceived stress, tobacco and al-cohol use was collected. BMI and BP were measured using standard protocol and classified following standard guidelines. Bio-chemical parameters were also measured. Results: Among 250 workers, 37.2% and 10% consumed daily minimal recommended level of vegeta-bles and fruits respectively, 21.1% was current tobacco user, 17.2% was alcohol drinkers, 50.4% were obese, 18.8% had high blood pressure and 6% had elevated cholesterol. Among the workers 46.7 % had <10% risk, 5.3% had 10% to <20% risk and, 3.3% had 20% to <30% risk to develop CVD within future 10 years of lifetime. Drivers and current alcoholics were associated with being in the high-risk group. Conclusion: Employer initiated regular work place health screening and services need to be aimed at the unskilled workers, especially for CVD targeting drivers and alcoholics.