Cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) have an important role in the development of almost all CVDs.^[1] They can be divided into two categories: modifiable factors, including hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, physical inactivity, and inadequate intake of fruits and vegetables; and non-modifiable factors such as age, sex, family history and ethnicity. ^[2,3] 

CVDs remain the principal cause of death globally, with an estimation of 17.9 million deaths (32% of global deaths) each year reaching 23.3 million deaths by 2030, 85% of deaths are due to stroke and heart disease, and one-third of these fatalities are premature in adults under the age of 70. ^[4] As reported in various studies, the prevalence of these risk factors is on the rise across nearly all regions of Africa. ^[5] According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “over three-quarters of CVD deaths take place in low- and middle-income countries”. ^[6]

Cardiovascular diseases are a significant global health challenge, accounting for nearly one-third of all deaths annually. The increasing burden of CVDs is linked to rapid urbanization, changes in dietary habits, physical inactivity, and rising prevalence of metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes. ^[7] Understanding the risk factors associated with CVDs is essential for implementing effective preventive measures and guiding public health policies. ^[8]

CVD risk factors can be broadly categorized into non-modifiable and modifiable groups. Non-modifiable factors include age, gender, and genetic predisposition, while modifiable factors encompass smoking, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, obesity, and sedentary lifestyles. ^[9] Previous studies have demonstrated that addressing modifiable risk factors can significantly reduce the incidence of CVDs and associated complications. ^[10]

^{Despite advances in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, CVDs remain a leading cause of death globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where healthcare access is limited. [11] This study aims to evaluate the prevalence and co-occurrence of various risk factors among patients attending a tertiary care hospital, with the goal of identifying opportunities for targeted intervention and prevention strategies}

A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and June 2023 at a tertiary care hospital. A total of 90 patients diagnosed with or at risk for cardiovascular diseases were included in the study.

Inclusion Criteria: Patients aged 18 years and above. Diagnosed with at least one risk factor for CVD.

Exclusion Criteria: Patients with incomplete medical records. Those unwilling to provide consent.

Data Collection: Data were collected through structured interviews, clinical examinations, and review of medical records. Variables studied included demographic details, smoking history, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose levels, lipid profile, body mass index (BMI), and physical activity levels.

Statistical Analysis: Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 29. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, and associations between risk factors were evaluated using chi-square tests.

Table 1: Demographic Characteristics

In table 1, the study population had a mean age of 54.2 years, indicating that CVD risk factors prominently affect middle-aged individuals. The male predominance (60%) suggests either a higher susceptibility among men or a possible gender bias in healthcare access or presentation.

Table 2: Prevalence of Risk Factors

In table 2, Hypertension was the most prevalent risk factor (70%), underscoring its critical role in the pathogenesis of CVDs. Smoking (50%) highlights behavioral risks, while diabetes (40%) points to metabolic influences. Dyslipidemia (35%), obesity (30%), and physical inactivity (45%) further emphasize the contribution of lifestyle factors.

Table 3: Co-occurrence of Risk Factors

In table 3, the majority of patients (60%) had two or more risk factors, illustrating the clustering effect that significantly elevates cardiovascular risk. The presence of three or more risk factors in 40% of the sample underscores the complexity of CVD management in these patients.

Table 4: Gender Differences in Risk Factors

In table 4, Smoking was notably higher in males (70% vs. 20%), reflecting potential cultural or behavioral influences. Hypertension and diabetes were relatively balanced across genders, suggesting universal susceptibility. Obesity and physical inactivity were higher among females, which may indicate barriers to physical activity or gender-specific health disparities.

Table 5: Lipid Profile Among Patients

In table 5, Elevated mean total cholesterol (210 mg/dL) and LDL-C (140 mg/dL) levels highlight poor lipid control, a significant driver of atherosclerosis. Low HDL-C (45 mg/dL) and elevated triglycerides (180 mg/dL) indicate a pro-atherogenic lipid profile common in CVD patients.

Table 6: Blood Pressure Levels

In table 6, the stratification of blood pressure levels shows that a significant proportion of patients fall into hypertension stages 1 and 2, warranting targeted interventions for blood pressure management.

The study highlights a high prevalence of modifiable risk factors such as hypertension, smoking, and diabetes, consistent with global trends. These findings underscore the importance of focusing on lifestyle modifications and public health interventions. ^[12] Hypertension emerged as the most prevalent risk factor, affecting 70% of patients. This emphasizes the critical need for regular monitoring and effective management strategies, such as salt reduction, increased physical activity, and pharmacological treatments where necessary. ^[13]

Smoking, observed in 50% of patients and predominantly among males, remains a major contributor to CVD risk. Targeted anti-smoking campaigns and cessation programs are vital in addressing this issue. ^[14] Diabetes, affecting 40% of the study population, highlights the growing burden of metabolic disorders. It necessitates early diagnosis and glycemic control through dietary measures and medications. ^[15]

The co-occurrence of multiple risk factors in 60% of patients underscores the complex interplay of various determinants of CVD. ^[16] Patients with multiple risk factors are at exponentially higher risk of adverse cardiovascular events, emphasizing the need for comprehensive, multi-faceted intervention strategies. ^[17]

Gender-specific differences were also evident, with obesity and physical inactivity more common among females. This suggests a need for tailored public health messages and interventions addressing gender-specific barriers to healthy living. ^[18-22]

In summary, the study provides valuable insights into the prevalence and distribution of CVD risk factors. It highlights the urgent need for integrated public health strategies aimed at prevention, early detection, and management to reduce the burden of CVDs in the population.

This study identifies hypertension, smoking, and diabetes as the leading risk factors for cardiovascular diseases in the study population. Addressing these factors through early detection, patient education, and lifestyle interventions can significantly reduce the burden of CVDs. Further research with larger sample sizes is recommended to validate these findings and develop targeted preventive strategies.

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