Prevalence of Risk Factors of Noncommunicable Diseases in 12 Barangays of the AMIGA Municipalities of Cavite

Abstract

Objective. This study aims to determine the prevalence of risk factors of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in 16
barangays of the AMIGA municipalities of Cavite.

Methods. The research is a cross-sectional study. Randomly chosen participants were interviewed using a translated
version of the WHO Steps questionnaire. Interviewees were then invited to participate in another session where
their anthropometric measurements were taken and their fasting blood sugar and cholesterol levels were determined.

Results. The research was done in 12 out of the 16 targeted barangays. A total of 1,527 participants were interviewed
and 1,123 of them completed the study. The most significant findings in all 12 barangays were a very high rate of
passive smoking (range of 60-80%); a relatively high proportion of respondents with obesity by all 3 parameters
(BMI 29-52%; waist circumference 42-78%; and waist-to-hip ratio 41-78%) despite sufficient intake of fruits and
vegetables and more than adequate physical activity; and a high proportion of participants with hypertension (more
than 30% in 8 out of 12 barangays) and diabetes mellitus (more than 8% in 7 out of 12 barangays).

Conclusion. A high prevalence of risk factors of NCDs, particularly obesity, hypertension, and diabetes was found
in the 12 barangays of AMIGA that participated in the study. Results of this study should provide the baseline data
against which the success of an ongoing program in the area can be measured.