Cardiovascular disease risk factors in the community of the western region of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Objectives To estimate the prevalence of the risk factors for coronary artery disease (CAD) in the community of the Western Region, Saudi Arabia. Background CAD is a significant cause of mortality globally, particularly in developing countries, and predicted to increase significantly. The risk factors for CAD, such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and smoking are increasingly prevalent, in addition to an increased prevalence of obesity. Design/Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a mall, using a consecutive sampling technique. Individuals were interviewed in terms of clinical signs and symptoms as well as the risk factors. The anthropometric measurements were done on site to identify asymptomatic risk factors. Results In total, 193 individuals participated in this study. The mean age of the sample was 36.3 ± 12.4 years, with 53% male. Smoking was the most frequent risk factor (36.1%), followed by dyslipidemia (22.5%), hypertension (16.6%), and diabetes mellitus (14.5%). Less than half (40%) of the sample participated in sport for one to two hours per week. Almost all consumed fast food at least once a week, and 16.6% consumed fast food more than four times a week. The average systolic blood pressure was 129.41± 22.5 mmHg and the average body mass index (BMI) 28.6 ± 9.5 kg/m2. Conclusion Dyslipidemia was the most prevalent risk factor, followed by hypertension and diabetes mellitus. These three risk factors are first in the risk factor pyramid in commonality, and preventative interventions are pivotal to decrease the incidence of cardiovascular disease. The consumption of fast food is relatively high with a low level of physical activity. Educating the community regarding measures to reduce the modifiable risk factors is foundational to avoid catastrophic results.