Prevalence of Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Niger According To The May Measurment Month (MMM) Model : Prospective, Descriptive and Cross-Sectional Survey From 2017 To 2021

Review Article

Abstract

Introduction: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), particularly cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), represent a growing public health challenge worldwide. In Niger, as in other low- and middle-income countries, the increasing prevalence of CVDs is driven by behavioral and metabolic risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, tobacco use, and sedentary lifestyles. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) in Niger using data collected from all regions except Diffa over a four-year period (2017–2021).

Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 30,047 participants, with the western zone (NiameyTillabéri-Dosso) being the most represented (55.64%). Participants aged ≥18 years provided informed consent and underwent anthropometric measurements, including blood pressure, blood glucose, and body mass index (BMI). Data were collected via a pre-established questionnaire and analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS Pro 22 software. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: The study revealed a high prevalence of CVRFs, with hypertension affecting 29.08% of participants, diabetes awareness reported in 6.55%, and hyperglycemia in 9.64%. Obesity was prevalent in 36.10% of respondents, with abdominal obesity more common in males (29.14%) than females (23.85%). Tobacco consumption was observed in 8.71% of cases, predominantly among males, while alcohol use was rare (2.30%). Sedentary lifestyle was identified in 25.27% of participants. Hypertension was significantly associated with age >40 years, female gender, diabetes, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and tobacco consumption (p=0.001%). Stroke history was reported in 15.41% of respondents, whereas myocardial infarction (MI) history was minimal (0.10%), likely due to underdiagnosis.

Conclusion: This large-scale study highlights the significant burden of CVRFs in Niger, emphasizing the need for early detection and intervention. The findings underscore the importance of addressing modifiable risk factors through education, awareness campaigns, and policy interventions. Concerted efforts involving the government, healthcare providers, and communities are essential to mitigate the progression of CVDs and improve public health outcomes in Niger.