The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #67829

Thandi Puoane, Dr PH¹, Hazel Bradley, BPham, MPH², Buyelwa Dlangamandla, RN, RM³, Mickey Chopra, BSc, BM, DCH, MS¹, and David Sanders, MB, ChB, MRCP¹. (1) Public Health Programme, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X 17, Bellville, 7535, South Africa, 27 219593048, thandi.puoane@uwc.ac.za, (2) Health, Joint Primary Health Care, P.O.Box 30745, Tokai, 7966, South Africa, (3) Dept of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Private Bag, Rondebosch, 7700, South Africa

Objective: To identify determinants of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and to establish priorities for healthy lifestyles in an urban township.

Method: Community Health Workers employed by a primary health care non-governmental organisation were guided on conducting a situational assessment of their community. Key informants were interviewed to assess perceptions about diabetes and hypertension and the impact in the community. Observations and interviews of street vendors selling food were carried out to obtain information on types of food sold and knowledge and perceptions of healthy food choices. Community mapping and photographs were used to investigate the environmental determinants.

Findings: Key informants recognised diabetes and hypertension as common conditions in their community. However, they lacked insight about the impact of these conditions. Sheebens and meat vendors outnumbered fruit and vegetables stalls. There were very few green areas and sports fields for promoting relaxation and physical activity.

Conclusion: This assessment shows that knowledge and perceptions of cardiovascular disease is inadequate in this urban population and the environment provides little opportunity for making healthy choices. There is a need for policies that will promote access to healthy food and create supportive environments.

Learning Objectives:

• To identify determinants of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and to establish priorities for healthy lifestyles in an urban township

Keywords: Community Health Assessment,

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Handout (.pdf format, 1304.4 kb)