Knowledge on behavioural risk factors of lifestyle diseases and its prevalence

Abstract

The present study was aimed to assess knowledge and practice on behavioural risk factors of lifestyle diseases among people attending outpatient departments (OPD’s) in selected health centers at Kottayam district. A quantitative non experimental research approach was used for the study. The study was theoretically supported by Betty Neuman’s System Model. People came to OPD’s were selected until 350 subjects obtained. The tools used for data collection were socio personal data sheet, structured knowledge questionnaire to assess the knowledge, behavioural risk assessment scale to assess behavioural risk factors, clinical data sheet to obtain data regarding lifestyle diseases and rating scale to assess practice. Result of the study revealed that majority of people had good knowledge and practice on behavioural risk factors of lifestyle diseases. There was significant association between knowledge and practice regarding behavioural risk factors of lifestyle diseases with age, gender, education, economic status and source of information. The prevalence of behavioural risk factors among the people based on behavioural risk assessment revealed that majority of people attending OPD of health centres were leading unhealthy lifestyle.