HOW AWARE ARE THE EDUCATORS OF CARDIOVASCULAR RISK FACTORS?

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to know the frequency of CVD risk factors in teachers of Peshawar. Material and Methods: Data for this study was derived from Peshawar Heart study (PHS). PHS was conducted by Card~gy Department Postgraduate Medical Institute, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar to determine various cardiovascular risk factors like diabetes hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, physical inactivity etc in various occupational groups of Peshawar. Results: Data of 174 school teachers recruited in Peshawar Heart Study (PHS) was analyzed for the frequency ofCVD risk factors. Their mean age was 42.95±8.29 years. Mean BMI was 26.11 ± 4.53 Kg/rn' and 35.05 % (n=61) were overweight and 47.07 % (n=83) were found to be obese. Mean systolic blood pressure was 131.2±18.16 mmHg and 33.33 % (n=58) had systolic blood of ~ 140 mmHg. Mean diastolic blood pressure was 89.25±12.13 mmHg and 59.77 % (104) had their diastolic pressure ~ 90 mmHg and 5.75% (n=10) were known hypertensive. Mean cholesterol was 168 mg/dl while 20.68 %( n=36) had cholesterol of~ 180mg /dl. Out of 174 school teachers 4% (n=7) were known diabetic and 6.32 %( n=l1) had RBS of ~ 140 mg/dl. CAD was found in 3.44 %( n=6). Family history of CAD was positive in 18.96% (n=33). Fifty eight percent subjects admitted to regular exercise. ECGs were also analyzed and it was found that 2.88% (n=5) were having LVH, 1.75% (n=3) were having right bundle branch block (RBBB) and 2.88% (n=5) have changes of previous myocardial infarction. Conclusion: It was demonstrated in this study that CVD risk factors especially lack of exercise, obesity and hypertension were common in school teachers.