Abstract

Shrestha R.*, Shrestha K., Singh J. P. and Shrestha S.

ABSTRACT

Introduction/ Objective: Heart disease is the most frequent condition in older adults and the number one cause of death. People age 60 and older are much more likely than younger people to suffer a heart attack, to have a stroke, or to develop heart disease. Cardiovascular disease is also a major cause of disability, limiting the activity and eroding the quality of life of millions of older people. Hence, this study was conducted to identify the awareness regarding cardiovascular health among older population residing in Bharatpur Municipality, Chitwan. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional research design was used among 90 older people residing in Bharatpur-11 Municipality. Non-probability, consecutive sampling technique was used. Semi structured questionnaire was used to collect data by conducting semi-structured interview schedule. Data was analyzed in descriptive and inferential statistics (chi-square test with odd ratio). Results: Of the 90 participants, healthy people or normal BMI was found 67.8% and presence of chronic disease was found 75.6%. Among them, 66.1% were hypertensive, 55.8% were diabetes, 32.3% were hypothyroidism and 16.1% were stroke patients. The level of awareness regarding CVH was found aware (55.6%). On the basis of statistical analysis, ethnicity (p=<0.001), religion (p=<0.0001), and type of family (p=0.002) were significant associated factors with level of awareness regarding CVH among older aged people. Conclusion: It is concluded that nearly half of the respondents were unaware about CVH. Significant associated factors of awareness on CVH were ethnicity, religion, and type of family. Cost-effective community based awareness programs taking into account socio- demographic factors may be beneficial in this setting.