A STUDY ON THE AWARENESS AND RISK FACTORS OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE AMONG OLDER ADULTS IN SOUTHWEST NIGERIA

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of illness and death across the globe, with a particularly profound impact on the elderly population. According to the World Health Organization (2021), CVDs account for over 31% of global deaths, with older adults more heavily affected due to the accumulation of risk factors over the course of their lives. As the global population continues to age, the occurrence of cardiovascular conditions is expected to rise, making it essential to understand and implement targeted intervention strategies tailored to this age group. Ageing is naturally associated with physiological changes that increase susceptibility to cardiovascular problems. These changes include a loss of elasticity in blood vessels and a decline in the heart’s pumping efficiency (Mozaffarian et al., 2016). Additionally, comorbid conditions common in older age, such as diabetes and hypertension, further compound cardiovascular risk (Benjamin et al., 2019). Because of these age-related changes, it is crucial to understand how older adults perceive and manage their cardiovascular health. Evidence suggests that awareness and knowledge of cardiovascular risk factors play a significant role in preventing and managing the disease (Graham et al., 2018). Key risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, smoking, and physical inactivity. However, several studies have shown that many older adults have a limited understanding of these risk factors and their potential consequences. Mensah et al. (2019) found that a lack of adequate knowledge about CVD often leads to poor health-seeking behaviour, resulting in delayed diagnoses and inadequate treatment. Understanding these knowledge gaps is vital for the development of effective educational interventions. Lifestyle habits significantly contribute to the risk of cardiovascular disease. Unhealthy diets, a lack of physical activity, and smoking are modifiable risk factors that can lead to serious health outcomes (Adedoyin et al., 2017). Positive lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise, have the potential to significantly reduce the risk of CVD among older adults. Yet, many in this age group face barriers to adopting healthier behaviours, such as physical limitations, low motivation, and financial constraints (Benjamin et al., 2019). Furthermore, access to healthcare services is a critical factor in managing cardiovascular risks. Older individuals often encounter challenges like transportation issues, limited finances, and inadequate health insurance coverage, which can hinder their ability to receive preventive care (Mensah et al., 2019). Health literacy—defined as the ability to access, interpret, and apply basic health information—also plays a vital role in how older adults engage with healthcare providers and follow medical advice (Graham et al., 2018). Enhancing health literacy among this group is essential for empowering them to take control of their cardiovascular health. In Nigeria, particularly among the elderly, the growing prevalence of CVD is becoming increasingly evident. Weak healthcare infrastructure, limited public awareness of cardiovascular health, and cultural beliefs all serve as barriers to prevention efforts (Adedoyin et al., 2017). In light of these challenges, this study aims to explore the knowledge and risks related to cardiovascular disease among older adults in Southwest Nigeria. 1.2 Statement of the Problem Cardiovascular disease remains a major contributor to global morbidity and mortality, especially among the elderly (World Health Organization, 2021). With advancing age, individuals become more vulnerable to CVD due to cumulative effects from lifestyle choices, genetic predispositions, and biological changes (Mozaffarian et al., 2016). Despite the heightened risk, many older adults lack sufficient awareness of CVD risk factors, leading to delayed diagnoses and worsening health outcomes (Mensah et al., 2019). Studies have shown that improving knowledge about risk factors—such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and poor dietary habits—can significantly enhance prevention and management of CVD (Benjamin et al., 2019). However, some elderly individuals struggle to understand the link between these risk factors and cardiovascular health (Graham et al., 2018). In Nigeria, the disparity in healthcare access and varying levels of health literacy place older adults at even greater risk. Limited knowledge of preventive measures and treatment options often exacerbates the burden of cardiovascular disease. This can lead to higher hospitalization rates, increased healthcare costs, and a decline in the overall quality of life among older populations. Consequently, there is a pressing need to assess the knowledge and risks of cardiovascular disease among elderly people in Southwest Nigeria. 1.3 Objective of the Study General Objective: To examine the knowledge and risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease among older adults in Southwest Nigeria. Specific Objectives: i. To evaluate the level of knowledge about cardiovascular disease among older adults in Southwest Nigeria. ii. To identify the prevalent cardiovascular risk factors among this demographic. iii. To explore the barriers that prevent older adults from adopting healthy behaviours that mitigate cardiovascular risk. iv. To suggest effective health promotion strategies aimed at enhancing cardiovascular health literacy and reducing CVD risks among older adults in the region. 1.4 Research Questions i. What is the level of knowledge about cardiovascular disease among older adults in Southwest Nigeria? ii. What are the most common cardiovascular risk factors affecting this population? iii. What barriers prevent older adults from adopting behaviours that reduce their risk for cardiovascular disease? iv. What health promotion strategies can be implemented to improve cardiovascular health literacy and lower CVD risk among older adults in the region? 1.5 Significance of the Study The findings of this study will provide crucial insights for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and public health authorities. It will guide the development of age-appropriate cardiovascular health programs focusing on education, prevention, and early detection for older populations. Additionally, this research will contribute to the academic community by enriching existing literature and serving as a valuable resource for future scholars and researchers. 1.6 Scope of the Study This study centres on assessing knowledge and risk factors related to cardiovascular disease among older adults in Southwest Nigeria. Specifically, it will investigate the level of awareness regarding CVD, identify prevalent risk factors, examine barriers to healthy lifestyle adoption, and propose targeted health promotion strategies. Geographically, the research is limited to Osun State. 1.7 Limitations of the Study As with most research efforts, this study encountered several limitations. Time Constraints: The researcher had to balance data collection and analysis with academic responsibilities, such as attending lectures and completing other coursework. Financial Limitations: Conducting the study required significant expenses for printing, typesetting, literature sourcing, and data collection. Limited Access to Materials: The scarcity of literature on the subject, especially in the Nigerian context, posed a challenge in sourcing relevant academic references and background materials. 1.8 Definition of Terms Cardiovascular Disease (CVD): A group of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels, including conditions such as coronary artery disease, stroke, and hypertension. Older Adults: Individuals aged 60 years and above, who are more vulnerable to age-related health conditions like CVD. Risk Factors: Traits or behaviours—such as smoking, poor diet, high blood pressure, and inactivity—that increase the chance of developing cardiovascular disease. Knowledge: The awareness or understanding individuals have regarding cardiovascular disease, including its causes, risk factors, prevention, and treatment. Preventive Measures: Steps or strategies aimed at reducing the chances of developing cardiovascular disease, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and avoiding tobacco.