Key result
Tanzanian adults aged 40-69 had a 13.3% prevalence of high CVD risk or existing CVD, with depression associated with increased risk.
Why the study?
Tanzania faces a growing burden of cardiovascular diseases due to aging, urbanization, and lifestyle changes, making it necessary to estimate the prevalence and determinants of CVD risk among vulnerable adults aged 40–69 years.
Cross-Sectional (n=1,490)
Yes
In Tanzania, 13.3% of adults aged 40–69 have a high CVD risk (≥20%) or existing CVD, with higher vulnerability among females, adults aged 55–69, Southern Highlands residents, and individuals with depression (aPR 2.50).
Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
Prevalence data may inform targeted surveillance in high-risk groups; leaves open whether depression or regional factors warrant new interventions.
Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, with LMICs, including Tanzania, experiencing a growing burden due to aging, urbanization, and lifestyle changes. Adults aged 40–69 years are particularly vulnerable due to cumulative exposure to modifiable risk factors such as unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and harmful alcohol consumption. Objective: To estimate the prevalence and identify determinants of CVD risk among Tanzanians aged 40–69 years, using data from the 2023 National STEPs Survey. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of the Tanzania STEPs survey was conducted between September and November 2023, including 1,490 adults aged 40–69 years from 26 mainland regions and 5 Zanzibar regions. Data were collected through structured interviews, physical measurements, and biochemical sample collection. CVD risk was assessed using the WHO CVD risk prediction equation, considering factors such as age, gender, smoking status, systolic blood pressure, diabetes history, cholesterol levels, and BMI. Logistic regression modeling identified independent risk factors associated with high CVD risk (≥20%) or existing CVD. Results: The prevalence of high CVD risk (≥20%) or existing CVD was 13.3% (95% CI: 10.6–16.6). Females (15.7%, 95% CI: 12.3–19.8) and individuals aged 55–69 years (18.5%, 95% CI: 14.6–23.1) had higher prevalence rates compared to males (7.7%, 95% CI: 5.4–10.9) and those aged 40–54 years (10.7%, 95% CI: 8.1–14.0). The Southern Highlands zone had the highest prevalence (28.5%, 95% CI: 22.2–35.6). Depression was significantly associated with increased CVD risk (aPR: 2.50, 95% CI: 1.90–3.31). Conclusion: Despite a decrease in CVD risk prevalence compared to previous surveys, females, older adults, those with depression, and residents of the Southern Highlands remain at higher risk. Sustained NCD prevention efforts, mental health interventions, and targeted strategies for high-risk zones are essential to reduce CVD burden in Tanzania.
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Mayige et al. (2026) conducted a cross-sectional in Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk (n=1,490). WHO CVD risk prediction equation assessment and sociodemographic/clinical risk factors (e.g., depression, sex, age, geographic zone) was evaluated on High CVD risk (≥20%) or existing CVD (aPR 2.50 (for depression), 95% CI 1.90-3.31). Tanzanian adults aged 40-69 had a 13.3% prevalence of high CVD risk or existing CVD, with depression associated with increased risk.
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