Awareness and Risk Factors of Heart Attack Among the General Population in the Southern Region of Peninsular Malaysia: A Cross-sectional Study
Mohammed A. Abdalqader1*, Hana Chen2*, 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
Journal of Angiotherapy 8(8) 1-13 https://doi.org/10.25163/angiotherapy.889922
Submitted: 10 June 2024 Revised: 15 August 2024 Published: 17 August 2024
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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