ASSOCIATION OF BODY MASS INDEX WITH SELECTED RISK FACTORS AMONG THE ETHNIC POPULATION OF TRIPURA- A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity is one of the most significant multifactorial non-communicabledisorders that have reached a pandemic level in present era. Moreover, the cut off for its appropriate definition in different ethnic groups and races vary greatly. As per recent NCD initiative, Tripura reported 1,73,112 cases throughout the state. (www.tripurancd.org) However, there is paucity of exclusive data regarding the indigenous population, made vulnerable by modern lifestyle. Aim:To assess the association of BMI with blood pressure and biochemical risk factors for NCDs among the ethnic population of Tripura and to evaluate the role of obesity as a predisposing factor. Methods and materials:This cross-sectional facility-based study was conducted in the ethnic belt under Kherengbar CHC employing pre-designed questionnaire, anthropometry and laboratory investigations. Of the 182 ethnic subjects (≥30years) from the Tripuri tribe, 7.8%, 30.7%, 61.4% were in underweight, normal and pre-obese/obese categories respectively. Among the study population with hypertriglyceridemia (≥200mg/dl.) the prevalence of obesity was found to be 78.3%, among hypoalphalipoproteinemic subjects with HDL≤35mg/dl. 55.6% were obese, among systolic (≥140mmHg) and diastolic (≥90mmHg) hypertensives, prevalence of obesity was 64.58% and 66.66% respectively, and among hyperglycemic individuals with RBS≥140mg/dL prevalence was 55.2%. Results and conclusionsThis study brings into light that although indigenous populations were once thought to have a leaner body mass and lower prevalence of hypertension and metabolic disorders than non-ethnic populations, the trend is fast changing owing to societal intermingling and change in lifestyle.A higher BMI was observed among the ethnic Tripuri tribe of Tripura and also associated with dyslipidemia, hypertension and hyperglycemia. An increasing prevalence of obesity, hypertension and altered lipid profile among the ethnic population is an indication of the growing risk of cardiometabolic diseases.