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Risk factors of cardiovascular diseases among staff of federal polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun state
Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are growing contributors to global diseases burden leading to death among adults. Few nutrition studies have focused on the health of working-class people particularly those in academic institutions.
Objective: The study identified the risk factors of cardiovascular diseases among staff of Federal Polytechnic Ilaro (FPI), Ogun State.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study of 200 FPI staff (academic and non-academic staff) was conducted using multi-stage sampling. Information on socio-economic status was captured with validated self-administered questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure measurement and risk factors of CVDs such as BMI, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, WHR and lifestyle factors were identified. Body mass index (BMI) and Waist-hip ratio (WHR) were calculated while blood pressure compared to standards. Data were analyzed for descriptive – frequency and percentages and inferential statistics – Chi square and regression analysis where p ˂ 0.05 are statistically significant using SPSS 20.
Results: The study had more (57.5%) male than (42.5%) female respondents with 31% aged 41-50years. The distribution of risk factors of CVDs showed (25.5% and 32%) as obese and overweight respectively. Abdominal fat accumulation indicated (50.5%) males at low risk compared to 64.5% females at high risk. The systolic (15%) and diastolic (12.5%) blood pressure were hypertensive. Majority (86%) do not engage in regular exercise while 1.5% and 24% respectively indulge in smoking and alcohol consumption. Daily consumption of fruits (24.5%) and vegetables (19%) was poor. However, significant relationship between BMI, WHR and risk factors of CVDs was observed at p ˂ 0.05.
Conclusion: Overweight, obesity, poor intake of fruits and vegetables were identified as risk factors of CVDs among the respondents. Abdominal fat accumulation was higher in female than male respondents. This calls for intervention targeting regular physical exercise, unhealthy diet and awareness campaign on early detection of the risk factors.
Keyword: Risk factors, cardiovascular diseases, polytechnic staff
