Publication:

Risk factor profile for non-communicable diseases in public institutions of Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India

Background Non communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of death globally, killing more people each year than all other causes combined. NCDs are caused, to a large extent, by four behavioural risk factors that are pervasive aspects of economic transition, rapid urbanization, and 21st century lifestyles: Tobacco use, unhealthy diet, insufficient physical activity, and the harmful use of alcohol.

Methods This was a cross sectional study conducted in public institutions of urban field practice area of department of Community Medicine. World Health Organization (WHO) STEPS approach was used to find the prevalence of risk factors. The study was conducted in public institutions among working population aged 18 years and above.

Results A total of 350 participants were included in the study. The overall prevalence of tobacco use was 23.4%. The prevalence of alcohol consumption was 36%. None of the participant was consuming more than five servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Physical inactivity was seen in 51%. Total of 32.6% were found to be hypertensive.

Conclusions This study shows the high burden of risk factors for NCDs in the working population. Action should be oriented toward curbing the NCD risk factors and promoting healthier lifestyles to reduce NCD incidence rates and push back the age of NCD onset.