Awareness, prevalence, and risk factor analysis of lifestyle diseases: A clinical study of patients at Dr. Hedgewar Rugnalaya

Abstract:

This study assesses the awareness, prevalence, and risk factors of lifestyle diseases among 50 participants at Dr. Hedgewar Rugnalaya, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, highlighting a critical gap between health knowledge and practical implementation. Utilizing a cross-sectional descriptive-analytical design, the research identified that while 95% of individuals believe lifestyle modifications can prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs), significant barriers such as lack of motivation (29%), stress (24%), and time constraints (20%) hinder behavioral change. Anthropometric data revealed that over half the sample falls outside the normal health range, with 37.5% categorized as overweight and 12.5% as obese, while physiological risk factors were further compounded by inadequate sleep in 42% of participants and moderate to high stress levels in 77% of the cohort. Ultimately, the analysis demonstrates a strong correlation between urbanized living patterns characterized by sedentary behavior and processed diets and increased susceptibility to NCDs, suggesting that a shift from curative to preventive healthcare through structured community wellness programs and early lifestyle intervention is essential to mitigate the rising global health burden.