Assessments of Cardiac Disorder and Associated Risk Factor among Baltistan Population

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a major cause of illness and death worldwide. In 2017, 17.5 million of 55 million global deaths were due to CVDs. In 2019, nearly one-third of all deaths were linked to CVDs, affecting both men and women. Major risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, poor diet, and physical inactivity. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Baltistan, Gilgit Baltistan, from February to June 2024 to assess CVD risk factors and their association with lifestyle, social, and demographic characteristics. Data were collected through questionnaires from cardiac patients at District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital Skardu and from healthy volunteers. Patients with documented coronary artery disease were included. Diagnostic tools such as ECG, chest X-rays, echocardiograms, and angiography were used. In total, 113 male and female patients participated. The study found that both modifiable (smoking, obesity, cholesterol) and non-modifiable (age, gender, family history) factors significantly influenced CVD risk. Smoking was the leading cause. At DHQ, 97.3% of patients spoke Balti, and 93.8% relied on the hospital for care. High rates of hypertension (96%) and respiratory illnesses (70%) were observed, with 83% of patients in critical condition. Regional needs were higher in Shigar (20.3%) and Khaplu (26.5%). Strengthening healthcare infrastructure in Baltistan is urgently required. Improved diagnostic capacity, trained staff, and consistent availability of medicines are needed. Community-based health education in local languages should be prioritized to reduce risk factors and improve prevention and management of CVDs.