A Cross-Sectional Study of Non-communicable Disease Risk Factors Among Non-diabetic and Non-hypertensive Population

Noncommunicable diseases, especially diabetes and hypertension, have emerged as significant public health challenges. Regular screening, even among healthy individuals, is essential for early diagnosis and prevention of complications.

This cross-sectional study was conducted in an urban ward of the Sangli-Miraj-Kupwad municipal corporation in Maharashtra, India, and cluster random sampling was used to collect data. A total of 430 participants aged 10 years and older were enrolled in the study. The institutional committee approved the study, and all guidelines, including consent and confidentiality, were strictly followed throughout the research. Data collection employed the World Health Organization (WHO) Stepwise approach to surveillance (STEPS) instrument. Descriptive statistics, such as percentage, mean, and standard deviation, were used to summarize the distribution of important variables in the study population. Inferential statistical tests, including unpaired t-tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA), were applied to compare mean blood pressure and blood sugar levels among participants with differing characteristics. Logistic regression was utilized to identify the best predictors for elevated blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

Out of the 430 participants, 366 (85.1%) exhibited risk factors for non-communicable diseases. Elevated blood pressure and blood sugar levels were noted in 220 (51.2%) and 194 (45.1%) subjects, respectively. Age and average systolic blood pressure were the best predictors for random blood sugar levels, while age, lifestyle-related risk factors, religion, overweight, and random blood sugar levels were the best predictors for systolic blood pressure. Marital status and random blood sugar levels were the best predictors for diastolic blood pressure.

Our findings highlight that a substantial proportion of apparently healthy people have elevated blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Hence, regular screening from a young age is recommended.