Investigating the prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors among adults in a selected rural village of Vhembe District, Limpopo

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of global mortality, with modifiable lifestyle factors playing a critical role. Data on the prevalence and clustering of these risk factors in rural South African communities, which often bear a disproportionate burden of disease, remain limited. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and clustering of key CVD risk factors among adults in Nweli village, Vhembe District, Limpopo. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 120 adults. Data were collected through interviewer-administered questionnaires (including the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire) and standardised physical measurements (waist circumference, blood pressure). The dataset was analysed using SPSS version 29, employing descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, correlation analyses and regression modelling. Non-normal distributed data are reported as median (Interquartile Range, IQR). Results: The sample was mainly female (78.3%), with a median age of 48.0 years (IQR = 21.0). A high proportion, 61.7%, were physically inactive, with a notable gender disparity: 67.0% of females and 42.3% of males. Central obesity, determined by waist circumference, affected 48.3% of participants and showed a strong association with systolic blood pressure (r = 0.52, p < 0.001). Dietary habits were poor, as 42.5% reported daily intake of fatty foods. Importantly, 71.7% of participants had two or more CVD risk factors simultaneously, with the combination of physical inactivity and central obesity (42.5%) being the most prevalent cluster. Conclusion: A high prevalence and significant clustering of modifiable CVD risk factors exist in this rural community, driven by physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, and central obesity, and exacerbated by gender disparities and socioeconomic constraints. These findings provide an evidence base for the urgent development of integrated, community-based primary prevention strategies tailored to this high-risk population.