Prevalence and Correlates of Cardiovascular Health Status among Adults in Afghanistan: Results of a National Survey in 2018

The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence and correlates of cardiovascular health (CVH) status among adults in Afghanistan.

In a national cross‑sectional household survey 3,447 adults completed CVH measurements in Afghanistan. Criteria for ideal CVH (ICVH) were physical activity, healthy diet, non‑smoking, fasting blood glucose (<100 mg/dL), body mass index (<25 kg/m2 ), total cholesterol (<200 mg/dL), and blood pressure (<120/<80 mmHg).

More than one‑third (34.3%) of participants had 5‑7 ICVH, 45.7% 3‑4 ICVH, and 20% had 0‑2 ICVH. In adjusted logistic regression analysis, secondary or more education (AOR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.22‑2.66) was positively associated, and older age (45‑69 years) (AOR: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.26‑0.42), and urban residence (AOR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.51‑0.88) were inversely associated with 5‑7 ICVH.

The prevalence of ICVH was low in Afghan adults. Population measures may be used to improve CVH targeting identified associated factors.