Prevalence Of Cardiovascular Risk Factors Among Young Adults Enrolled As Students In The University Of Nairobi

Abstract

Background: Non communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of mortality and morbidity globally. Cardiovascular diseases account for 48% of non communicable diseases globally. Kenya is undergoing epidemiological transition where NCDs are projected to be the leading cause of mortality by the year 2030. Young adulthood is a period of transition from dependence on guardians to full independence. Most habits and lifestyles adopted during this age are lifelong and therefore it is an ideal age for intervention. There are no studies done in Kenya to asses the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in Kenya. Objective: To determine the magnitude of Traditional Cardiovascular Disease Risk factors among young adult students enrolled in the University of Nairobi. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional descriptive survey among young adults between 18-34 years enrolled in the University of Nairobi (UoN). Data was collected using WHO STEPS Questionnaire administered by an interviewer. The questionnaire covered risk factor stratification questionnaire including history of diabetes and hypertension, smoking habits, dietary habits, alcohol use and physical activity pattern. In addition, anthropometric measures were taken. Data were analyzed using STATA and presented in means, median, frequencies, percentages and standard deviation. Chi-square tests were used to assess relationships between categorical variables. Student T test was used for continuous variables. Results Of the 792 screened for eligibility, 768(97%) consented to participate in the study. Of these, 493 (64%) were males. Majority were undergraduate (98%) and single (95%). The median age was 22 years (IQR 20-23 years). The prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors was as follows; smoking 8.2%, alcohol consumption 51.2% , physical inactivity 11.7% , overweight and obesity 13.7%, hypertension 13.7% and diabetes 0.4%. In a sub sample of 91 participants, 44 had high total cholesterol. Conclusions This study demonstrated a high prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors among young adults. The prevalence of these risk factors varies by age and gender and majority of them are undiagnosed. The young adults are usually not a focus of intervention measures aimed at curbing NCDs, however as shown in this study there is need for targeted intervention measures tailored for this age group