Assessment of Risk Factors and Knowledge of Heart Disease among Community People in Selected Area, Pokhara

Coronary heart disease and stroke are becoming major causes of premature death and disability worldwide.

To assess the risk factors and knowledge on coronary heart disease among community people.

Descriptive study was carried out among 375 people 30 years and above in selected area, Pokhara. Non-probability convenience sampling technique was used. Revised version of Heart Disease Fact Questionnaire(HDFQ) was used to assess the knowledge on coronary heart disease and risk factors assessment tool was used to assess risk factors. Blood pressure, height and weight were measured. The collected data was analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistic.

Out of 475 people, 228 (60.8%) female and 147(39.2%) male, mean age of participants was 45.17 year. Majority (56.6%) of participant had an inadequate knowledge on coronary heart disease. There was no significant association between the knowledge level and selected variables(sex, occupation, education). The risk factors prevalent among them were overweight (61.6%), hypertension (26.9%), stressful daily life(26.9%), smoking(22.1%), diabetes(8.3%). Likewise, 38.7 and 30.7 percent of people consume highly fatty food and daily alcohol. Prevalence of risk factors such as hypertension, smoking and drinking alcohol are highest in age group of 30–40 years.

Prevalence of risk factors are high in young adult but knowledge on heart disease is inadequate. So early screening for HTN, diabetes, dyslipidemia, abdominal obesity, and other risk factors for heart disease should begin at an early age. Educational program targeting younger generation, the role of diet and exercise should be emphasized.