Social and occupational factors associated with cardiovascular disease risk factors among healthcare workers in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo: a cross-sectional study

Background Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide, with a disproportionate burden in low and middle-income countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo. Beyond biological determinants, socioeconomic and occupational factors significantly shape CVD risk. Healthcare workers (HCWs), despite their medical knowledge and preventive role, may be particularly exposed to these influences. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and socio-professional factors associated with CVD risk factors among HCWs in Kinshasa. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2023 and January 2024 among 614 HCWs selected through multistage stratified random sampling in Kinshasa’s hospitals. Data were collected using a modified WHO STEPwise questionnaire. Anthropometric parameters, blood pressure, and fasting blood sugar were measured. Associations between sociodemographic, behavioral, and occupational factors and each CVD risk factor were assessed using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results Among the 614 participants, 55.2% were female, with a median age of 37 years. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 33.8% and 16.2%, respectively; prehypertension and hypertension affected 29.3% and 22.6%; while prediabetes and diabetes were observed in 15.7% and 11.0% of participants. Being females (aOR = 3.44, 95% CI 1.81–6.52), aged ≥ 40 years (aOR = 4.70, 95% CI 2.32–9.53), using private cars to get to work (aOR = 5.40, 95% CI 2.59–11.24), and working four or more days per week (aOR = 2.49, 95% CI 1.42–4.37) were more susceptible of having obesity. HCWs aged ≥ 40 years (aOR = 4.00, 95% CI 2.25–7.12), with seniority ≥ 10 years (aOR = 4.08, 95% CI 2.26–7.34), and performing night shift work (aOR = 4.57, 95% CI 2.56–8.14) were more likely to have hypertension. Being married or living with a partner (aOR = 2.88, 95% CI 1.16–7.13) and having seniority ≥ 10 years (aOR = 3.96, 95% CI 1.54–10.23) increased the likelihood of having diabetes. Conclusion This study reveals a substantial burden of CVD risk factors among HCWs in Kinshasa, associated with sociodemographic and occupational factors. Targeted workplace and policy-level interventions addressing working conditions, workload organization, and lifestyle behaviors are needed. As health educators, strengthening their cardiovascular health may improve both their well-being and their role in CVD prevention in the general population.