Knowledge and Preventive Practices on Major Cardiovascular Non- communicable Diseases and Identify Associated Factors among Young Adults in National Youth Council Center, Maharagama, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Background: Deaths due to cardiovascular diseases is rising among adults below fifty years of age in Sri Lanka, highlighting the need for awareness on cardiovascular diseases for preventive and early identification purposes. Objective: To assess the knowledge and preventive practices regarding major cardiovascular non- communicable diseases and identify associated factors among young adults in the National Youth Council Center, Maharagama, Sri Lanka Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 307 students selected using stratified random sampling technique to ensure fair representation of both full-time and part-time students. Data were gathered using a pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire. Data analysis was done using Shapiro -Wilk, Mann-Whitney and Kruskal - Wallis one - way ANOVA statistical tests. Results: Most participants were female (52.8%) and belonged to the 18-20-year age group (67.1%). Among them, 48.5% demonstrated a moderate level of knowledge. The mean percentage for preventive practices was 44.21%, indicating a moderate level of engagement. Significant associations were found between knowledge and several sociodemographic factors, including gender (p=0.003), the current course of study (p=0.000), and sources of knowledge such as the internet (p=0.029) and social media (p=0.000). Additionally, preventive practices were significantly associated with nationality (p=0.022), religion (p=0.030), and permanent location (p=0.036). Conclusion: The majority of participants demonstrated a moderate level of knowledge and engagement in preventive practices. Association between level of knowledge and sociodemographic factors highlights the necessity for targeted educational campaigns to address specific knowledge gaps and improve preventive behaviors