Association of lifestyle factors and non-communicable diseases among patients attending the NCD clinic of a Government Health Facility in Rural Uttar Pradesh, India

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension and diabetes are on the rise in rural India, largely driven by modifiable lifestyle factors. Rural populations, despite slower urbanization, are increasingly experiencing health transitions marked by physical inactivity, tobacco use, and obesity. Objective of this study was to assess the burden of non-communicable diseases and examine the association of anthropometric and lifestyle risk factors among patients attending the NCD Clinic at CHC Mohanlalganj, Lucknow. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 273 patients aged ≥30 years attending the NCD Clinic at CHC Mohanlalganj from January to March 2025. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and clinical assessment. Anthropometric indicators (BMI, waist circumference), behavioral factors (tobacco, alcohol, physical inactivity), and clinical markers (skin tags, acanthosis nigricans) were evaluated. Bivariate logistic regression was used to assess associations with hypertension and diabetes. Results: The prevalence of hypertension and diabetes was 36.3% and 28.6%, respectively. Hypertension was significantly associated with older age (p=0.002). Participants with BMI ≥25 kg/m² had higher odds of hypertension (OR=3.418, p=0.013) and diabetes (OR=7.027, p=0.010). Raised waist circumference, tobacco use, alcohol intake, sedentary lifestyle, and family history were significantly associated with both conditions. Skin tags and acanthosis nigricans were also strong predictors of NCDs. Conclusions: This study highlights the significant role of modifiable lifestyle factors and simple clinical markers in the rising burden of NCDs in rural India. Early screening, health education, and behaviour change interventions especially at the primary care level are essential to curb the growing NCD epidemic.