Prevalence and modifiable risk factors of non-communicable diseases among traders in major markets in Nigeria

Background and objectives: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death globally. Available evidence has shown that they significantly affect the economic growth and development of any nation through increased health care cost, and loss of individual/countries productive capacity. Considering the consequences of NCDs, it becomes crucial to monitor the trend of these diseases among populations who play active roles in driving the national economy. This study therefore seeks to determine the prevalence and risk factors of NCDs among traders in major markets in Enugu metropolis, Nigeria. Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive survey design was adopted and multistage random sampling technique was used to select 514 respondents from major markets in Enugu metropolis, Nigeria. Data on background information, food consumption pattern, and lifestyle behaviours were obtained using questionnaire. Blood pressure and anthropometric measurements of weight, height, waist and hip circumference were also collected. Blood samples were analysed for blood glucose and lipid profile. Data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS, version 22. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to compare and determine the relationship between variables. Significance was accepted at p < 0.05. Results: Obesity (25.5%), overweight (40.7%), hypertension (35.2%), diabetes (15.6%) and dyslipidemia (70.3%) were prevalent among the study population. Factors associated with obesity/overweight were frequency of fruit consumption (OR= 6.00, 95% CI = 1.05 – 16.77), physical activity pattern (OR= 2.27, 95% CI = 1.42 – 3.62) and waist circumference (OR= 0.12, 95% CI = 0.08– 0.19), while dietary diversity (OR= 0.25, 95% CI = 0.07 – 0.95) and knowledge of health status (OR= 4.15, 95% CI = 1.04 – 16.57) were associated with dyslipidemia. Conclusions: NCDs are highly prevalent among traders in the Enugu metropolis, Nigeria hence the need for nutrition education and health sensitization programmes.