Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding Dyslipidemia among Adult Patients Visiting Medicine Outpatient Department of a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital in Delhi

Abstract

Abstract Background: Dyslipidemia, a key risk factor for atherosclerosis, affects 25%–30% of urban and 15%–20% of rural individuals in India, as per the Indian Heart Watch study. Despite its association with cardiovascular diseases, there is insufficient understanding among the public. Given the scarcity of studies on knowledge, attitudes, and practices of dyslipidemia among the Indian population, this study aims to fill that gap. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted from September 2022 to February 2024. A total of 288 adult patients visiting the medicine outpatient department were included in the study through convenience sampling. A structured questionnaire consisting of 42 questions was designed, pretested, and administered to the participants to assess their knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding dyslipidemia. Data regarding lipid profile tests (total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein) were collected, and medication adherence was also asked from the patients. Results: The study revealed a lack of knowledge, negative attitudes, and poor practices regarding dyslipidemia among the participants. The study included 288 participants with an average age of 40 years, predominantly males (53.1%). The majority of participants lacked knowledge about dyslipidemia (81.9%), with a prevalent misconception identified, with many participants incorrectly associating dyslipidemia exclusively with obesity. Among dyslipidemic patients, medication adherence was suboptimal, with a significant proportion discontinuing medication over time (87.3%). Factors associated with better knowledge of dyslipidemia included younger age, male gender, higher education level, professional occupation, higher income, unmarried status (who tend to be younger), urban residence, absence of comorbidities, and lower body mass index. Conclusion: The findings reveal significant gaps in awareness, negative attitudes, and suboptimal practices related to dyslipidemia and its management among the study participants. The majority of participants lacked knowledge about dyslipidemia, with a prevalent misconception associating it primarily with obesity.