Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) remains a global health challenge with a profound impact on public health. It encompasses a spectrum of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, stroke, and hypertension, and is responsible for a significant proportion of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In India, as in many other nations, CVDs have risen to become a leading cause of death and disability, posing a substantial burden on healthcare systems and societies [1-3].

The state of Punjab, renowned for its vibrant culture and agricultural heritage, has not been immune to the escalating prevalence of CVD. Recent studies have documented a rising trend in CVD cases within the state, underlining the urgency of comprehensive strategies to address this burgeoning health concern. Within Punjab, District Moga, characterized by its unique demographic and sociocultural features, presents an intriguing context for exploring the dynamics of CVD awareness and knowledge among its residents [4-6].

Risk factors for CVD are well-established and encompass various modifiable elements such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, tobacco use, diabetes, obesity, and physical inactivity. Effective prevention strategies, including lifestyle modifications and early intervention, rely heavily on public awareness and understanding of these risk factors (6). Therefore, assessing the current levels of awareness and knowledge regarding CVD, its risk factors, and preventive measures within District Moga is of paramount importance [7-9].

This research study aims to bridge existing knowledge gaps by conducting a   comprehensive    examination   of   the awareness and knowledge levels related to CVD among the general population of District Moga, Punjab. The findings from this study are expected to not only provide insights into the current state of awareness but also inform targeted public health interventions tailored to the specific needs of the local population.   

Objectives of the Study

The objective of this study is to gauge the levels of awareness and knowledge about Risk Factors and Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease among the general population of District Moga, Punjab.

• Research Approach: Descriptive

• Research Design:  Cross-sectional survey design

• Study rea:  District Moga, Punjab

• Study duration:Between April 2023 to June 2023

• Study population: The study's target population encompassed all adults aged 18 and above who had been residents of District Moga, Punjab for a minimum of 12 months

• Sample Size: A robust sample size of 400 adults was determined using a 95% confidence level, an estimated knowledge level of 50% regarding Risk Factors and Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease , a precise 5% absolute error margin, and a conservative 5% non-response rate

• Study Tool: A google form questionnaire consisting of questions regarding socio-demography and knowledge regarding Risk Factors and Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease was created. The questionnaire was initially pre-tested on a small number of participants to identify any difficulty in understanding by the respondents

Description of Tool

• Demographic Data Survey Instrument: The demographic form elicited information on participants’ background: age, marital status, religion, employment, education and many more

• Questionnaire: The questionnaire contains 20 structured knowledge related questions regarding Risk Factors and Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease. One mark was given for each correct answer and zero for incorrect answer. The maximum score was 20 and minimum score was zero. Scoring was done on the basis of marks as >80%(16-20) = very good,60-79%(12-15) = Good,41-59% ( 8-11) = Fair,<40% (< 8) = poor

• Validity of Tool: By the experts in this field

• Data Collection: Data was collected under the guidance of supervisors. The google form questionnaire was circulated among the residents of District Moga, Punjab for responses using online modes like e-mail and social media platforms like Whatsapp groups, Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin till the 400 responses were collected 

• Data Analysis: Data was collected and entered in Microsoft excel spread sheet, cleaned for errors and analyzed with Epi Info V7 Software with appropriate statistical test in terms of frequencies and percentage. 

• Ethical Considerations: Participants confidentiality and anonymity was maintained

The primary objective of this study was to gauge the understanding of Risk Factors and Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease among the general population of District Moga, Punjab. A total of 400 participants took part in the study, with 269 (67.25%) residing in urban areas and 131 (32.75%) in rural areas (Table 1).

Table 1: Knowledge Regarding Risk Factors and Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases among Study Participants

In the present study 26.5% (106)  participants had very good knowledge (16-20 marks) towards Risk Factors and Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases , 39.5% (158) had good knowledge (12-15 marks), 19.5% (77) had fair knowledge  (8-11 marks) and 14.75% (59) having poor knowledge  (<8 marks) (Figure 1).

The present study aimed to assess the levels of awareness and knowledge regarding Risk Factors and Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) among the general population of District Moga, Punjab. The findings shed light on the current state of CVD knowledge within this unique demographic context.

The study revealed a relatively high level of awareness among the participants regarding cardiovascular diseases and their major risk factors. Over two-thirds of the respondents were able to correctly name common cardiovascular diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels, such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, stroke, and hypertension. This suggests that the term "cardiovascular disease" is recognized and understood by a significant portion of the population in District Moga.

Participants displayed a commendable level of knowledge regarding the major risk factors associated with cardiovascular diseases. Approximately 66.25% of the respondents were aware of the major risk factors, including high blood pressure, smoking or tobacco use, diabetes, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and obesity. This awareness is essential, as understanding these risk factors is the first step towards effective prevention and lifestyle modification [10-11].

The study also explored participants' health behaviors related to CVD prevention. It is noteworthy that 65.75% of the respondents reported engaging in physical activity or exercise as part of their routine. This indicates a positive inclination toward a heart-healthy lifestyle, as regular physical activity is a crucial component of CVD prevention. Additionally, 63.75% were aware of the importance of a balanced diet in preventing heart diseases. This awareness can contribute to dietary choices that reduce CVD risk [12-13].

While the overall knowledge levels regarding CVD were promising, some gaps were identified. For instance, only 25.75% of respondents were familiar with the term "atherosclerosis" and its impact on blood vessels. This highlights the need for targeted education on the underlying mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases [13-14].

Furthermore, genetic factors and family history were less recognized as risk factors, with only 27% of participants acknowledging their significance. This suggests an opportunity for health education initiatives to emphasize the role of genetics in CVD risk assessment [10,14].

The study found that a substantial proportion of respondents had not attended health workshops or seminars on cardiovascular disease prevention (24.25%). This underscores the importance of community engagement and the implementation of educational programs to enhance CVD awareness and knowledge in District Moga.

Limitations

This study has certain limitations. The use of online data collection methods may have introduced selection bias, as individuals without internet access may have been excluded. Additionally, the study's cross-sectional design only provides a snapshot of knowledge levels at a specific point in time.

In conclusion, this study reveals a relatively high level of awareness and knowledge regarding cardiovascular diseases and their risk factors among the general population of District Moga, Punjab. However, there are knowledge gaps that present opportunities for targeted health education interventions. By addressing these gaps and promoting heart-healthy behaviors, public health efforts can contribute to reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases in this region.

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