Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Adults on Cholesterol Management in CALABARZON Region

Abstract

Background and Objectives. High levels of total cholesterol, according to the Food and Nutrition Research Institute, are among the top significant contributing factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The awareness of cholesterol at the community level is critical in potential prevention and preparedness. This paper aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of adults on cholesterol management to determine their risk to CVD. Methods. The study targeted employed populations (20 to 55 years old) who were undiagnosed with hypercholesterolemia and other severe chronic diseases. The participants were categorized based on their work mobility: (a) sedentary; and (b) active. KAP scores were predefined as high, moderate, low, and very low risk. Results. Results showed that 52% of the participants had excellent overall knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) scores, thus had the lowest risk of developing hypercholesterolemia. However, 28% resulted in having the highest risk among the population. Conclusion. The results of this study showed the level of good KAP among employed adults to be relatively high. Despite the gaps in KAP measurement, respondents showed interest in cholesterol-lowering interventions. Further studies are therefore necessary to fill the findings with a more concrete resolution.