Awareness and Risk Factors of Heart Attack Among the General Population in the Southern Region of Peninsular Malaysia: A Cross-sectional Study

Mohammed A. Abdalqader^1*, Hana Chen^2*, Norhafizah Ab Manan¹, Abd Rahim Mohamad¹, Krishna Gopal Rampal¹, Thein Win Naing¹, Alabed Ali A. Alabed¹, Mohamad Zulkipli Bin Othman¹, Ahmad Nizal Bin Mohd Ghazali¹, Hooi Chia Tang³, Jegathambigai Rameshwar Naidu², Hasanain Faisal Ghazi⁴

This research provides valuable insights into the sociodemographic factors influencing knowledge, attitudes, and practices, offering a basis for targeted public health interventions aimed at reducing the burden of heart attacks in the region.

Abstract

Background: Heart attacks, or acute myocardial infarctions, continue to be a leading global health issue. In Malaysia, cardiovascular diseases have been the primary cause of death since the 1980s, with a significant increase in heart attack-related fatalities over recent years. Public awareness of heart attack risk factors is crucial for reducing mortality rates. However, there remains a critical gap in understanding the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) regarding heart attack risks in certain regions of Malaysia. This study aimed to assess these factors and identify demographic characteristics associated with them in the Southern region of Peninsular Malaysia. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire to evaluate the KAP toward heart attack risk factors among 432 participants from the Southern region of Peninsular Malaysia. Convenience sampling was employed. Chi-squared tests were used to assess the relationship between sociodemographic factors and KAP. Multiple logistic regression was performed to determine predictors of KAP. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and p-values <0.05 were considered significant. Results: The findings revealed that 81.7% of respondents had inadequate knowledge of heart attack risk factors. While 66% exhibited a positive attitude toward heart attack prevention, 83.6% had poor preventive practices. Significant predictors of KAP included education level and ethnicity, with higher education associated with better knowledge, attitude, and practices. Gender was a significant predictor of attitude, with women showing lower awareness of their risk. Conclusion: This study highlights a significant gap in heart attack-related knowledge and preventive practices within the Southern region of Malaysia. Education and tailored public health interventions are necessary to improve awareness and promote effective prevention strategies. Addressing these gaps is vital to reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases in Malaysia and achieving better public health outcomes.

Keywords: Heart attack awareness, Cardiovascular disease, Risk factors, Public health, Malaysia

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