Determinants of cardiovascular health indices among physicians in a tertiary centre

Physicians lead efforts to prevent and manage heart-related conditions globally through clinical intervention and public health advocacy. Prior research has shown that healthcare providers often face unique occupational stressors that impact their physiological well-being and long-term disease susceptibility. Medical practitioners in sub-Saharan Africa operate within resource-constrained environments that might exacerbate chronic disease risks due to high patient volumes and extended shifts. Existing literature frequently focuses on patient populations rather than the clinicians responsible for their care, creating a significant knowledge deficit. Data regarding the specific cardiovascular risk profiles of African medical staff remain extremely limited despite their central role in healthcare delivery. This absence of evidence motivated a structured evaluation of health metrics among doctors in a Nigerian tertiary facility to establish baseline wellness data.

This investigation evaluated the cardiovascular health indices of a diverse cross-section of Nigerian medical practitioners to identify prevalent risk factors. Researchers sought to quantify specific physiological and behavioral markers within a tertiary hospital setting using standardized assessment protocols. The project aimed to identify how sociodemographic variables and work-related stressors influence the long-term heart health of these essential workers. Investigators focused on identifying the prevalence of ideal, intermediate, and poor health categories among different specialties to pinpoint vulnerable subgroups. The study intended to highlight specific areas where lifestyle modifications are most necessary for clinical staff to maintain their professional efficacy. Analysis of these determinants provides a foundation for developing targeted wellness programs for healthcare workers across the African continent.

A cross-sectional study design facilitated the recruitment of 251 medical doctors from a Nigerian tertiary institution with a median age of 34. Proportional representation across various medical specialties ensured a balanced demographic profile for the cohort, which consisted of 51.4% male participants. Data collection involved gathering sociodemographic details, work-associated factors, and specific cardiovascular metrics through structured interviews and clinical examinations. Anthropometric measurements were recorded alongside the Fuster-BEWAT score (FBS) to provide a multidimensional view of each participant's health status. This scoring system integrated five key components: Blood Pressure (BP), exercise habits, Body Mass Index (BMI), alimentation, and tobacco consumption. Statistical analysis examined the relationship between these health indices and professional roles such as consultants, residents, or medical officers.

The cohort exhibited a mean Fuster-BEWAT score (FBS) of 7.8 out of a maximum 15, indicating an overall intermediate health status. Only 1.6% of the participating physicians achieved an ideal cardiovascular health rating, highlighting a widespread need for health improvement. Intermediate and poor health scores were observed in 59.4% and 39.0% of the participants, respectively, reflecting significant physiological risks. Behavioral metrics revealed that only 1.2% of doctors maintained adequate fruit or vegetable intake, while only 10.4% reported regular physical activity. The percentages of doctors who possessed ideal blood pressure and Body Mass Index (BMI) were 46.6% and 27.9%, respectively. Medical officers and residents demonstrated significantly better health profiles compared to their consultant counterparts, although 98.4% of all participants were non-smokers.

Nigerian medical professionals currently maintain a composite cardiovascular health index that falls within the intermediate range, necessitating targeted wellness interventions. High rates of tobacco avoidance and normotensive blood pressure represent the most positive health indicators in this group of 251 practitioners. Significant deficits in physical activity, weight management, and nutritional habits require urgent institutional intervention to prevent future chronic disease development. The disparity between junior and senior staff suggests that career progression and increased responsibility may negatively impact physiological well-being over time. Future initiatives should prioritize structured exercise programs and improved dietary options within hospital environments to support the medical workforce. Enhancing the personal health practices of physicians is essential for maintaining a robust and effective healthcare system in Nigeria.