Vol. 6, Issue 2, Part B (2024)

Background: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a leading cause of mortality globally and poses a significant health challenge in Bangladesh. The Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT), home to diverse ethnic groups with distinct cultural, dietary, and lifestyle practices, present a unique opportunity to study CAD risk factors. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions.
Aim of the study: The study aims to identify the associated risk factors of coronary artery disease (CAD) among the various ethnicities residing in the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh.
Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study, conducted from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2023, examined coronary artery disease (CAD) risk factors among 600 ethnic participants from the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) of Bangladesh. Participants aged ≥20 years and from Chakma, Marma, and Tripura communities were selected using cluster sampling. Data collection involved face-to-face interviews, physical exams, and blood tests. Blood pressure, dietary habits, BMI, and physical activity were assessed using validated tools. SPSS (Version 26.0) was used for data analysis, including chi-square tests and binomial logistic regression, to identify CAD risk factors. Ethical approval was obtained.
Result: The study included 600 participants from the Chakma, Tripura, and Marma ethnic groups, with mean ages of 41.55, 42.29, and 42.33 years, respectively. The Tripura group had the highest percentage of males (53%), while the Chakma group had the most females (62%). Most participants completed SSC-level education, with business and service being common occupations. The Marma group had higher rates of joint families (58%) and the highest tobacco and alcohol consumption (66% and 48%). Chakma participants had the highest overweight rate (42%) and the highest normal blood sugar levels (81%). Key CAD risk factors included smoking (OR 2.2) and high blood pressure (OR 2.5).
Conclusion: This study identifies critical risk factors for coronary artery disease (CAD) among ethnic groups in the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh. Key findings include significant variations in tobacco and alcohol consumption, dietary habits, physical activity levels, and socioeconomic status across Chakma, Tripura, and Marma communities. The Marma group exhibited higher tobacco and alcohol use, while the Chakma group showed lower physical activity and higher obesity rates.