Multiple cardiovascular risk factors in Kenya: evidence from a health and demographic surveillance system using the WHO STEPwise approach to chronic disease risk factor surveillance. Issue 18 (19th July 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bloomfield, Gerald S; Mwangi, Ann; Chege, Patrick; Simiyu, Chrispinus J; Aswa, Daniel F; Odhiambo, David; Obala, Andrew A; Ayuo, Paul; Khwa-Otsyula, Barasa O
• Is Part Of: Heart. Volume 99:Issue 18(2013)
• Page Start: 1323
• Page End: 1329
• Publication Date: 2013-07-19
• Subjects: Heart -- Diseases -- Treatment -- Periodicals; Cardiology -- Periodicals; 616.12
• DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2013-303913
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1355-6037

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: To describe the distribution of cardiovascular risk factors in western Kenya using a Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS). Design: Population based survey of residents in an HDSS. Setting: Webuye Division in Bungoma East District, Western Province of Kenya. Patients: 4037 adults ≥18 years of age. Interventions: Home based survey using the WHO STEPwise approach to chronic disease risk factor surveillance. Main outcome measures: Self-report of high blood pressure, high blood sugar, tobacco use, alcohol use, physical activity, and fruit/vegetable intake. Results: The median age of the population was 35 years (IQR 26–50). Less than 6% of the population reported high blood pressure or blood sugar. Tobacco and alcohol use were reported in 7% and 16% of the population, respectively. The majority of the population (93%) was physically active. The average number of days per week that participants reported intake of fruits (3.1 ± 0.1) or vegetables (1.6 ± 0.1) was low. In multiple logistic regression analyses, women were more likely to report a history of high blood pressure (OR 2.72, 95% CI 1.9 to 3.9), less likely to report using tobacco (OR 0.08, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.11), less likely to report alcohol use (OR 0.18, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.21) or eat ≥5 servings per day of fruits or vegetables (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.76 to 0.99) compared to men. Conclusions: The most common cardiovascular risk factors in peri-urban western Kenya are tobacco use, alcohol use, and inadequate intake of fruits and vegetables. Our data reveal locally relevant subgroup differences that could inform future prevention efforts.