Original Research Article
Year: 2018 | Month: August | Volume: 8 | Issue: 8 | Pages: 219-225
Assessment of Risk Factors of Non-Communicable Diseases among Adolescents
Dr. Irfan Mohiuddin1, Dr. Humaira Ansari2
1Professor and Centre Head, Allen Career Institute, Thane (West), Mumbai-400601
2Physiotherapist and Public Health Specialist, Pune
Corresponding Author: Dr. Irfan Mohiuddin
ABSTRACT
Objective: A number of modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors are contributors for non-communicable diseases. Therefore the objective of the study was to assess the various risk factors associated with non-communicable diseases among adolescents.
Methods: This was a cross sectional study conducted in Mumbai, India. Fifty adolescents in the age group of 13-17 years were included in the study. Data on selected risk factors were collected using a self-administered modified Global School Based Students Health Survey (GSBHS). Anthropometric indicators i.e. height and weight were measured using calibrated instruments and blood pressure was measured using a digital blood pressure apparatus. The World Health Organization (WHO) simplified field tables used by Government of India were used to determine the Body Mass Index (BMI). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure were computed based on age and height of the adolescent.
Results: There was a linear relationship between height, weight, body mass index and systolic and diastolic blood pressure among males and females (p<0.05). A higher percentage of males were prehypertensive, hypertensive as well as overweight and obese as compared to females. The study showed that various risk factors i.e. low physical activity, poor dietary pattern, family history of obesity were present among adolescents.
Conclusion: School based interventions focusing on various risk factors among adolescents and regular physical and medical examinations are required to reduce the morbidity associated with non-communicable diseases. Health education and awareness regarding the risk factors will go a long way in reducing the burden and help in improving life and health outcome.
Key words: Adolescents, GSHS, Global School Health Survey, Mumbai, risk factors.