Prevalence and Association of Behavioral and Physiological Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) in Police personnel of an urban city

Abstract

Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD) are a leading cause of death in India, with police personnel at elevated risk due to irregular timings and stress. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence of leading CVD risk factors among police personnel in an urban Indian city. One police station was randomly selected from each of the 8 administrative divisions of the city (n=394). Data were collected using an adapted WHO STEPS tool covering socio-demographic, lifestyle, and anthropometric factors. The prevalence of modifiable risk factors was high: inadequate fruit and vegetable intake 97.0%; insufficient nut consumption 92.1% and physical inactivity 76.1%. Suboptimal blood pressure and overweight/obesity were 65.7% and 65.8% respectively, while 61.2% had abdominal obesity. Tobacco use was 39.8%. The prevalence of overweight/obesity, abdominal obesity, and hypertension was significantly higher in men (p<0.001). Institutionalizing regular screening programs and workplace - based preventive strategies is essential to promote early detection and effective risk management.