Introduction
Armed conflicts intensify psychological and social stressors, contributing to the emergence of behavioral risk factors (BRFs), such as sleep disorders, inadequate eating habits and substance use. This study assessed the prevalence of BRFs in the Ukrainian population in the context of war, correlating them with stressors associated with quality of life, social adaptation and changes in the work environment.
Methods
The survey involved 196 participants, between January and August 2023, using a proprietary questionnaire to assess health status, socioeconomic and behavioral factors. Individuals of different age groups were included, 75% of whom were women, and categorized according to their location (internally displaced, local residents or abroad). Statistical analysis was conducted with SPSS 21.0, employing tests such as Kolmogorov-Smirnov, ANOVA and chi-square.
Results
Sleep disturbances emerged as the most prevalent CRF (72.4%), followed by reduced physical activity (55.6%) and inadequate dietary habits, including weight gain (22.4%) and weight loss (36.2%). Increased alcohol and tobacco consumption were reported by 16.8% and 13.3% of participants, respectively. Stressors such as exposure to bombings, human casualties, and financial instability were significantly associated with sleep disturbances and changes in anthropometric status. Furthermore, changes in the work environment correlated with increased substance use and reduced physical activity.
Discussion
The results reinforce the critical role of quality of life stressors, social adaptation and working conditions in determining CRFs. The relationship between traumatic stressors and sleep disturbances was highlighted, suggesting the need for systematic screening and tailored interventions for populations in conflict contexts. The integration of psychological support strategies and physical rehabilitation programs is essential to mitigate cardiovascular risk (CVR) associated with these behaviors.
Conclusions
The predominant CRFs during armed conflicts are largely influenced by psychosocial and socioeconomic stressors. The development of multidimensional programs that address psychosocial support, improve living conditions and encourage the practice of healthy habits is recommended to reduce the impact of CRF on vulnerable populations.
Reference :
Original citation: Kolesnikova, O., Vysotska, O., Radchenko, A., Zaprovalna, O., & Emelyanova, N. (2024). Prevalence of behavioral risk factors among Ukrainians during war amid existing stress factors. Academia Medicine, 1. https://doi.org/10.20935/AcadMed7469
