A REVIEW OF RISK FACTORS FOR PRIMARY PREVENTION OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES IN PAKISTAN
Keywords:
Community intervention, Community health delivery, Primary prevention, Risk factorsAbstract
The feasibility of instituting primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases in Pakistan was explored. For this
purpose the reports of Metroville Health study (MHS) were reviewed in light of the experience of developed
countries. The MHS showed that it is possible to implement risk factor modification study in lower middle class
urban community in Pakistan. Diet was significantly modified; awareness of risk factor was enhanced. Mild
reduction in serum cholesterol was achieved in over one year of intervention. After 5 years of intervention the
awareness regarding cardiovascular diseases and the effect of risk factors on the genesis of heart diseases
remained high. The current smokers’ prevalence decreased significantly and serum cholesterol showed decrease,
though not statistically significant. Physical activities improved, Blood pressure showed no change and BMI was
increased in the intervention group. The non adherence increased after 5 years. It is concluded that it is possible
to implement risk factor modification in a lower middle class community in Pakistan. For sustain
