Cardiovascular Risk Assessment and its Components Using 10-year Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk Score Plus among Indian Population: A Hospital-based Cross-sectional Study

A BSTRACT Context: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including coronary heart disease and stroke, contribute significantly to global morbidity and mortality. India bears a substantial burden of CVDs, emphasizing the urgent need for prevention. Global risk assessment tools, the 10-year Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) risk score, aid in identifying individuals at risk. This study focuses on assessing cardiovascular risk factors and their association with sociodemographic factors using ASCVD risk scores among adults in urban Bengaluru, India. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted among outpatient department attendees in tertiary care hospitals in Bengaluru. Materials and Methods: Individuals aged >20 years were included, excluding those with a history of stroke or myocardial infarction. Statistical Analysis Used: Data, including demographic details, lifestyle factors, and clinical measurements, were collected. The ASCVD risk score was calculated using established algorithms. Statistical analyses, including Chi-square tests and logistic regression, were employed to evaluate associations. Results: Out of 81 study participants, 25% had a high 10-year ASCVD risk. Hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and smoking were prevalent risk factors. Notably, 90% of hypertensive patients were associated with a higher ASCVD risk. Poor awareness and treatment adherence for hypertension and diabetes were observed. Smoking, abnormal cholesterol levels, and age above 40 were significantly associated with high ASCVD risk. Conclusion: This study states that one in four individuals will have high ASCVD risk, which underscores the high prevalence of modifiable cardiovascular risk factors among adults in urban Bengaluru, India. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive preventive strategies targeting hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and smoking. A multi-faceted approach involving individuals, healthcare providers, policymakers, and the community is recommended to address the complex challenge of cardiovascular diseases in India.