Introduction:
Armed conflicts impose significant stressors on the population, leading to behavioral changes with substantial impact on cardiovascular risk (CVR). This study assessed the prevalence of behavioral risk factors (BRFs) in Ukrainians during the war, focusing on sleep disorders, dietary changes, physical inactivity, and substance abuse, correlating them with specific stressors.
Methods:
From January to August 2023, data were collected from 196 participants via an online questionnaire developed by the LT Mala Institute. The sample included 75% women, with ages ranging from 18 to 70 years. The assessed CRFs were sleep disorders, diet, physical activity, and substance use. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 21.0, with ANOVA and homogeneity tests, adopting significance of p<0.05.
Results:
Sleep disturbances were reported by 72.4% of participants, while 55.6% reported reduced physical activity. Dietary changes included weight loss (36.2%) and weight gain (22.4%). Increased smoking and alcohol consumption were reported by 13.3% and 16.8%, respectively. Stressors such as reduced security, occupational changes, and traumatic impact were associated with a higher prevalence of CRFs. For example, exposure to bombings correlated with impaired sleep quality (p=0.0001) and a higher prevalence of altered sleep patterns (p=0.032).
Discussion:
The results indicate an association between CRFs and stressors such as residential instability, reduced safety, social adaptation and occupational changes. Sleep disturbances emerged as the most prevalent CRF, with significant trauma impact. Reduced physical activity, combined with dietary changes, may aggravate CRF.
Conclusion:
This study highlights the need for comprehensive screening and intervention programs that address FRCs in conflict-affected populations. Interventions should include psychological support, promotion of physical activity, and improvement of socioeconomic conditions.
Reference :
Kolesnikova, O., Vysotska, O., Radchenko, A., et al. (2024). Prevalence of behavioral risk factors among Ukrainians during war amid existing stress factors. Academia Medicine, 1, 1-17. DOI: 10.20935/AcadMed7469.
