Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Gabon

Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death worldwide. In 2019, around 17.9 million deaths were attributed to CVD, with many of these occurring in low- and middle-income countries. These diseases include conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, such as stroke and coronary heart disease. The number of deaths from CVD is expected to rise. By 2030, it is estimated that 23 million people will die from these diseases. In sub-Saharan Africa, an alarming increase in CVD cases has been noticed over the last 30 years, now surpassing some infectious diseases like malaria and tuberculosis as the main cause of death.

#The Role of Risk Factors

Cardiometabolic diseases (CMD), which include CVD, are influenced by various risk factors. These can be divided into two types: modifiable and non-modifiable. Non-modifiable factors include age, while modifiable ones include High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, unhealthy cholesterol levels, smoking, lack of physical activity, high alcohol intake, and low fruit and vegetable consumption. High blood pressure can increase the chances of stroke and heart disease, while diabetes can double the risk of CVD.

In sub-Saharan Africa, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and Obesity are some of the most common risk factors for CMD. Urbanization has rapidly increased in this region, leading to more unhealthy lifestyles. Unplanned urban growth often means fewer places for people to be active, while it also increases easy access to unhealthy foods, tobacco, and alcohol.

#Differences Between Urban and Rural Areas

Previous research has shown that there are differences in the prevalence of risk factors for CMD between urban and rural populations. For example, data from Cameroon showed that obesity and high blood sugar levels were more common in cities than in the countryside. Men and women also show different patterns when it comes to risk factors. Generally, women are more prone to obesity, while men tend to smoke more.

In Gabon, data on CMD and its risk factors are limited. However, some studies have reported significant cases of CVD and diabetes. The World Health Organization noted that one in five people in Gabon is considered obese, and a notable percentage of deaths are linked to CVD. Recently, it has been suggested that the increasing rates of CMD in sub-Saharan Africa can be attributed to inadequate health programs and prevention strategies. A lack of data hinders efforts to tackle these diseases effectively.

#The Study on Risk Factors in Gabon

To gain more insight into the issue, a study was conducted in Gabon to determine the prevalence of risk factors for CMD in urban and rural areas. The study took place in two urban locations, Melen and Libreville, and two rural locations, Bitam and Koula-Moutou. Volunteers aged 18 and older participated, and a range of health evaluations and questionnaires were used to collect information about their health and lifestyle.

#Recruitment of Participants

Volunteers were recruited through awareness campaigns in healthcare centers. To be included in the study, individuals had to be residents of the study area for at least two years and had to consent to participate. Pregnant women were excluded from the study.

#Sample Size and Data Collection

The necessary number of participants was calculated based on previous data. The research team used a standardized questionnaire to gather information on various lifestyle factors, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and diet. Additional physical examinations included measuring height, weight, blood pressure, and other health indicators. Blood samples were also taken to assess cholesterol and glucose levels.

#Challenges in Data Collection

Efforts were made to ensure that the data collected was accurate. All measurements were taken by trained professionals, and participants with concerning health indicators were referred for further evaluation. Data was entered twice to avoid errors.

#Study Population Characteristics

In total, around 1,098 people were approached for the study, and 978 were interviewed. The majority of the participants were women, and most were under 54 years old. Many had at least a secondary education, and more than half were in a relationship. Urban participants were generally younger and more educated than those living in rural areas.

#Behavioral Risk Factors

The study revealed that a significant percentage of participants smoked, with men being more likely to smoke than women. Alcohol consumption was even more common, with men and people living in rural areas at higher risk of excessive drinking. Rural residents also tended to use more salt in their food than those in urban areas.

Sadly, fruit and vegetable consumption was low, with only a small percentage meeting the recommended intake. Physical activity levels were also concerning, especially among urban residents. Overall, many participants led sedentary lifestyles, which could contribute to health problems.

#Prevalence of Health Issues

A striking finding was that nearly half of the participants were diagnosed with high blood pressure. This rate was notably higher in urban areas, where other risk factors like diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol levels were also prevalent. About a fifth of those with hypertension were on medication, indicating a significant number were either unaware of their condition or not receiving treatment.

#The Impact of Urban Living

Urban residents showed a higher prevalence of risk factors for CMD, including obesity, high blood pressure, and unhealthy cholesterol levels. Women, in particular, exhibited a greater tendency for obesity compared to men. The findings suggest that urban living, combined with unhealthy lifestyle choices, heightens the risk of cardiac issues.

#Biological Risk Factors

The study also looked at blood samples to assess various biological risk factors. The most notable indicator was low levels of HDL cholesterol, the “good” cholesterol. Although some risk factors were less frequent, the concern remained high, especially regarding metabolic syndrome, which increases the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

#Framingham Risk Score

To estimate the 10-year risk of heart disease, the study used the Framingham risk score. This method takes into account several health indicators, such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The results indicated a higher risk of cardiovascular events among urban dwellers.

#Conclusion: A Growing Need for Action

The overall findings from the study demonstrate a high prevalence of risk factors for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases in Gabon. There are clear differences in health risks based on living conditions and gender. Given that many people carry multiple risk factors, there's an immediate need for effective health programs aimed at prevention, detection, and treatment of these diseases.

#Recommendations for Future Health Strategies

A regional approach is essential when devising strategies to combat the rising rates of CMD. Efforts should focus on raising awareness about healthy lifestyles, ensuring accessibility to health services, and encouraging routine health check-ups to reduce the impact of CVD in both urban and rural settings. More comprehensive data collection and targeted health campaigns will be crucial to make a meaningful difference in public health in Gabon.