Abstract:
Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death in the world. Over 80% of CVD related deaths occur in low- and
middle-income countries (LMICs). Diabetes and hypertension, whose prevalence in Kenya is on the rise, are major risk factors for CVD. Despite
this, studies indicate that awareness on the management of risk factors for CVD among diabetic/hypertensive patients in African populations is
generally low. The aim of the study was to determine the risk factors for CVD among diabetic and/or hypertensive patients attending diabetes and
hypertension management clinics in Korogocho and Viwandani slums of Nairobi. Methods: Data were collected using questionnaires administered
to 206 diabetic/hypertensive patients attending the clinics between July 2010 and February 2011. A review of these patients' medical records was
done to determine the history of CVD outcomes such as hypertensive heart diseases, stroke and peripheral arterial diseases. Results: Majority
(66.5%) of the study participants were females mainly in the 51-65 age category. The study findings revealed that 73 (33.4%) respondents had
CVD outcomes. In addition, 41.8% of the respondents were not aware of the causes of diabetes/hypertension. Age category 51-65 years had the
highest (43.8%) number of respondents with CVD. Sex of the respondents and awareness of the link between hypertension and CVD were
significantly associated with CVD outcomes (p. Conclusion: Measures to improve awareness levels among patients at high risk of CVD outcomes
are needed to complement other measures to reduce CVD risk among such patients.
