Assessment and prediction of cardiovascular risk and associated factors among tribal population of Assam and Mizoram, Northeast India: A cross-sectional study

Background Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are major health concerns and the leading cause of mortality globally. In India, tribal people are limited to rural areas and often associated with undiagnosed, uncontrolled disease risk factors. In this study, we explore the CVD risk factors and predict the ten-year CVD risk in tribal populations of Assam and Mizoram, Northeast India. Methods This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Assam and Mizoram from 2019 to 2022. The details of demographics, socioeconomic status, and anthropometric data were collected, and participants were evaluated for cardiometabolic risk factors using serum samples. To identify cardio-metabolic risk-associated factors, we performed a logistic regression analysis. The ten-year CVD risk was calculated using the Framingham general cardiovascular risk prediction equations. Results The study included 1812 participants from the villages of Assam (n = 708) and Mizoram (n = 1104). It was observed that Mizoram's tribal males who were overweight, >35 years of age, with higher systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and low levels of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) had a higher chance of developing cardiovascular disease over the next ten years. Multiple regression analysis revealed that age, gender, body mass index (BMI), smoking habits, and alcohol consumption were the risk factors that elevate SBP, DBP, blood glucose, and lipid levels and contribute to CVD risk among the tribal population. Conclusion Our findings highlight distinct risk factors contributing to cardiovascular risks within the tribal communities of Assam and Mizoram. Hence, it is essential to raise awareness among the tribal population and educate them on adopting a healthy lifestyle.