Risk assessment for non- communicable diseases among out patients visiting urban health centre in Jammu region: A cross sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: Twentieth century heralded accelerated health transition which brought Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) to the forefront of global public health challenges. Global trends suggest that these diseases to a large extent are associated with life styles like- unhealthy dietary intake, physical inactivity, tobacco use, high alcohol consumption and are on the riseObjectives: To assess the risk of Non Communicable Diseases among the community using Community Based Assessment Checklist.Methods: 266 patients over 30 years of age, presenting to OPD were assessed on their behaviour. Risk score on the risk factors like Age, Tobacco and Alcohol consumption, Physical inactivity, Waist measurement and Family history of NCDs were taken. Each risk factor has an allotted score from 0 to 2, a total score above 4 poses the individual at risk for developing NCDs.Results: 28% individuals had an average score above 4, 48% at 4 and 24 % had a score below 4.Conclusion: Populations having a higher level of score needs an urgent health intervention so that it ongoing burden of NCDs can be halted or controlled.