A nationwide health study has found widespread cardiovascular risk factors among Pakistanis. Many participants considered themselves healthy before taking part in the research.
The preliminary findings of the Pak Sehat Study showed several major health concerns. Researchers found high blood pressure, diabetes, elevated cholesterol, and obesity among participants.
Around 45% of participants were found to have high blood pressure. About 35% had diabetes, while nearly 70% had elevated cholesterol levels.
The study also found obesity among between 72% and 80% of participants. Researchers said these factors can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems.
The findings were presented during a seminar at the University of Karachi. The event was held in connection with World Heart Day.
Tabba Heart Director Dr. Bashir Hanif said the study screened around 2,000 people. Participants were between 30 and 65 years old.
The participants were selected according to the population share of each province. This approach allowed researchers to include people from different parts of Pakistan.
All participants considered themselves healthy before the screening. However, medical examinations identified several previously unknown cardiovascular risk factors.
The research included medical histories and physical examinations. Participants also underwent blood tests and other diagnostic assessments.
Some participants received CT angiography and ultrasound examinations. These tests helped researchers examine possible cardiovascular problems more closely.
Dr. Bashir Hanif said obesity was closely associated with several major risk factors. These included high blood pressure, diabetes, and elevated cholesterol.
These conditions can contribute to heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases. The findings have therefore raised concerns about the country’s cardiovascular health.
Heart Disease may also be developing at younger ages among South Asians. Dr. Hanif said heart attacks are increasingly being reported among younger people.
He noted that cases have even been reported among people below 30 years old. Researchers are studying possible reasons behind this earlier onset.
The Pak Sehat Study is examining premature narrowing of coronary arteries. It is also investigating factors linked with cardiovascular problems among younger and middle-aged Pakistanis.
Researchers are studying several possible influences on cardiovascular health. These include dietary habits, environmental conditions, and lifestyle factors.
Blood samples from participants have also been preserved for genetic analysis. Researchers hope this will provide additional information about potential causes.
The participants will be monitored for a period of 10 years. Their medical histories, physical examinations, and blood tests will be repeated periodically.
CT angiography is also planned at the five-year and 10-year stages. These follow-up assessments will help researchers track changes over time.
The long-term study could provide further information about cardiovascular risks in Pakistan. It may also help researchers understand why Heart Disease appears earlier in some populations.
The findings are preliminary and represent the ongoing research process. Further results are expected as researchers continue monitoring the participants.
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The study highlights the presence of cardiovascular risk factors among people who may not consider themselves at risk. It also underlines the role of health screening in identifying hidden conditions.
