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Determinants of Non Communicable Diseases: A Mixed-method Study on its Prevalence and Perceptions among Rural Population of Muchisa, West Bengal
LC15-LC21
Correspondence
Dr. Ankita Mishra,
Postgraduate Trainee, Department of Community Medicine, 1st Floor, Academic Building, IPGME&R, AJCÂ Bose Road, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
E-mail: 22ankita1992@gmail.com
Introduction: Most people with Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are unaware of the problem because it usually does not have any signs or symptoms in the initial stages. The measures for prevention of NCDs are not well known to the rural population which results in a huge burden on the health system.
Aim: To estimate the burden of NCDs, and its risk factors among the rural population residing in a village of Budge Budge II block, West Bengal. Also to explore their perceptions regarding determinants, complications and prevention of NCDs, and to look for the association of NCDs with the risk factors and socio-demographic characteristics.
Materials and Methods: An observational study, with cross-sectional design using mixed-methods approach, was conducted on 160 residents of Muchisa, from December 2020 to March 2021. A predesigned, pretested and structured schedule, prepared on the basis of World Health Organisation (WHO) STEPS framework, was used to assess the presence NCD and associated risk factors in the study population. Focused group discussion guide was employed to inquire about their perceptions. The participants were selected through cluster random sampling. The data were explored using Pearson’s Chi-square test, logistic regression and thematic analysis. A p-value of <0.05 was considered significant.
Results: Mean age of the participants was 45.0±16.8 years, and 69.4% participants were females. Total 75% of the participants suffered from atleast one NCD. All the participants had atleast one risk factor for NCD. Age group of 40-59 years (p-value <0.001) and 60 years or above (p-value=0.002), female gender (p-value=0.009), and preschool education or below (p-value=0.006) were associated with a higher risk of NCD. Qualitative data analysis revealed that lifestyle modification was not perceived to be effective against NCDs.
Conclusion: Socio-demographic factors, like age, gender and education have a bearing on the risk of developing NCD. Lack of awareness about the prevention of NCDs is the challenge in addressing the problem.