Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices KAP Regarding Coronary Heart Disease Risk Factors in Ramadi City, Iraq

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is the most leading cause of death in the world. Corresponding the knowledge, practices, attitudes KAP risk factors, and behaviors decrease mortality or minimize the possibility of cardiovascular disease (CVD) attacks. This study aimed to assess the KAP of (CVD) patients related to the risk factors. A cross-sectional study and non-probability sampling were done between 1st June and 30th September 2021 at AL-Andalus Healthcare Center, Ramadi City, Iraq. 200 (CVD) patients were interviewed face-to-face for data collection. Descriptive and bivariate analysis was performed using the chi-square test. The p-value >(0.05) was significant. The study revealed that out of the 200 respondents, (120)60% were males half graduated, over 55 years, and (30)25% were below 35 years while (80)40% were females, more than half were over 55 years, and (20)25% graduated. Most of the respondents were from urban areas. Regarding knowledge, 90(45%) demonstrated awareness, significantly linked to education (P<0.05), indicating that higher education is strongly associated. Only 40(20%) correctly identified the cut-off points of risk factors so there was a significant gap in the knowledge regarding critical thresholds for these major risk factors. For correct responses to cardiovascular risk factors, half of the patients responded accurately such as obesity, smoking, age, and diabetes, and 40% correctly answered questions about family history, lack of exercise, hypertension, and unhealthy diets. Regarding attitudes, the mean score was 43±3, more than half prioritized taking medication regularly but less focused on avoiding unhealthy behaviors like smoking, overeating, and eating unhealthy food with very few engaging in exercise. In terms of practices, the majority reported "always" taking medications but maintaining unhealthy lifestyles.