Chronic Diseases and Risk Factors in Malawi
Author Information
Author(s): Msyamboza Kelias P., Ngwira Bagrey, Dzowela Titha, Mvula Chimwemwe, Kathyola Damson, Harries Anthony D., Bowie Cameron
Primary Institution: World Health Organisation, Malawi Country Office
Hypothesis
What is the magnitude of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and their risk factors in Malawi?
Conclusion
Chronic non-communicable diseases and their risk factors are significant public health issues in Malawi, with high prevalence rates among the adult population.
Supporting Evidence
- 32.9% of adults had raised blood pressure or were on medication.
- 14.1% of participants were tobacco smokers.
- 21.9% of participants were overweight.
- 5.6% had raised fasting blood glucose or were on medication.
- 8.7% had raised cholesterol levels.
Takeaway
This study shows that many people in Malawi have serious health issues like high blood pressure and obesity, especially among men and women in different areas.
Methodology
A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted using the WHO STEPwise approach to collect data on chronic disease risk factors.
Potential Biases
The underrepresentation of males aged 25–34 years may have influenced the results.
Limitations
Technical faults with biochemistry machines limited testing to only half of the participants who consented.
Participant Demographics
67% of participants were female, 87.4% were from rural areas, and about 24.6% had no formal education.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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