Evaluation of Risk Factors of Non-Communicable Diseases among Women- A Pharmacoepidemiological Study

Abstract

This cross-sectional study, conducted between March and August 2023, assessed the risk factors of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) among 302 healthy women aged 18-45 years using a modified WHO STEPS approach. Data on behavioral and biological risk factors were collected and analyzed using correlation matrices with 95% confidence intervals. The findings revealed a high prevalence of behavioral risks, including insufficient physical activity (82.7%), inadequate fruit and vegetable intake (78.4%), and overweight/obesity (38%). Biological risks identified were hypertension (75.1%), anemia (40.1%), elevated cholesterol (19.6%), and high blood sugar (17%). The study concludes that behavioral risk factors are more prevalent than biological ones, emphasizing the need for urgent action through health education, improved nutrition, promotion of physical activity, and integrated national strategies to prevent and control NCDs in women.

Keywords: Non-Communicable Diseases; Biological Risk Factor; Behavioural Risk Factor; WHO Steps