AWARENESS OF RISK FACTORS FOR CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE AMONG CARDIAC SURGERY PATIENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY IN FOUR TERTIARY CARE HOSPITALS OF INDIA.

Abstract

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Awareness of CAD risk factors among healthcare providers is crucial for effective patient education and prevention strategies.

Objective: To assess the awareness of CAD risk factors among medical (MBBS students and interns), dental (BDS students), and paramedical staff (nurses and technicians) in four tertiary-level hospitals in India.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 250 participants: 100 MBBS students/interns, 50 BDS students, and 100 paramedical staff. A structured questionnaire assessed knowledge of major CAD risk factors including hypertension, diabetes, smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, dyslipidemia, and family history.

Results: Awareness levels varied across groups. MBBS students/interns demonstrated the highest awareness (mean score 82%), followed by BDS students (74%), and paramedical staff (65%). Hypertension and smoking were most frequently identified as risk factors (>90% recognition across groups), while obesity and sedentary lifestyle were less recognized, particularly among paramedical staff (45% and 40% respectively).

Conclusion: While overall awareness of CAD risk factors was satisfactory among medical and dental students, gaps remain among paramedical staff, particularly regarding lifestyle-related risks. Targeted educational interventions are recommended to strengthen preventive cardiology practices in tertiary care settings.