Prevalence of risk factors of ischemic heart disease among students of J N Medical College in Belgaum, Karnataka, India

• Main Authors: Akheel MM, Mubashir BA, Dixit MD
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Makhdoomi Printers 2012-06-01
• Series: Global Journal of Medicine and Public Health
• Subjects: Ischemic Heart Disease; Risk Factors; Medical College; Students
• Online Access: http://www.gjmedph.org/uploads/COMe2-Vo1No3.pdf

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is the important cause of death in economically developed countries and is assuming epidemic forms in developing countries. Research related to risk factors for IHD, especially among medical students is essential, considering their role as future physicians and role models for the general population. Objectives: To know the prevalence of risk factors of Ischemic Heart Disease among medical students. To know the level of awareness of these risk factors amongst the students. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among the undergraduate and postgraduate students of J N medical college in Belgaum, Karnataka. After clearing necessary ethical review, written informed consent was obtained from all the participants. Pre-designed, pre-tested, structured & self-administered questionnaire was used to collect information on identification data and risk factors in relation to Ischemic Heart Disease, and awareness. Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR), and Blood Pressure (BP) were ascertained. Results: Out of 691 students who participated in the study, 118 (17.1%) were smokers and alcohol consumption was present in 166 (24%) students. 200 (28.9%) had sedentary lifestyle and only 105 (15.2%) involved in physical activity regularly. 31 (4.5%) had family history of IHD. The minimum recommendation of taking at least five servings per day of fruits and vegetables was fulfilled only by 179 (25.9%) of students. 77 (11.1%) were overweight & 15 (2.2%) were obese. 94 (13.6%) were pre-hypertensive and 32 (4.63%) had unfavorable waist-hip ratio. 527 (76.3%) were aware of the risk factors.Conclusion & Recommendation: Risk factors of IHD are prevalent among the medical students at their very young age and may progress further with time. Strategies and interventions must be developed targeting these risk factors to promote healthy behaviors among the future doctors.