Cardiovascular risk assessment of the general population at a community pharmacy setting

Abstract

Background: The increasing burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) suggests the need for early detection of risks. This study assessed the outcomes of community pharmacy-based screening for CVD risks and the association of sociodemographic characteristics with health parameters. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among healthy consumers of community pharmacy services aged 18 and above. Interventions included the measurement of blood pressure, waist-to-hip ratio, height/weight, visceral fat, and CVD risks. Study endpoints were outcomes of community pharmacy-based screenings and the association of sociodemographics with health parameters. Results: A high prevalence of elevated blood pressure 212 (53.1%), high visceral fat 167 (41.8%), high waist-to-hip ratio 176 (44.1%), and high body mass index (BMI) 251 (62.9%) were observed among the 400 study participants. Of the 152 (38.0%) with CVD risks, 84 (55.3%) had a medium risk. Age was statistically significant for CVD risks, blood pressure, heart rate, and BMI. Occupation was statistically significant for CVD risks and heart rate. Marital status was significantly associated with CVD risk. Conclusion: Several outcomes were observed, including a high prevalence of hypertension, high BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, and overall medium CVD risks. These findings suggest the need for increased and targeted educational interventions.