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Abstract
Background: Urbanization in Pakistan is increasing rapidly and this is leading to an increase in the consumption of fast food, especially among young and middle-aged people. Fast foods are very high in calories and are made from saturated fats, trans fats, sodium and refined carbohydrates. These foods can lead to increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Objective: This study aims to investigate the relationship between fast food consumption and CVD risk factors among adults living in Sindh, Pakistan.
Methodology: A cross-sectional analytical study of 420 adults aged 20–60 years, residing in urban/semi-urban areas of Sindh was conducted to collect data on eating habits, fast food consumption frequency, physical activity, smoking status, and medical history with a validated questionnaire. Anthropometric and biochemical measurements were also taken. Logistic regression analysis was used to quantify associations.
Results: Participants eating fast food ≥3 days per week had a significantly higher mean body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure, serum LDL cholesterol, and fasting blood glucose compared to those eating fast food <1 day/week (p<0.05). Frequent fast-food consumption was also independently associated with obesity (AOR=2.41), hypertension (AOR=1.96), and dyslipidemia (AOR=2.18).
Conclusion: Frequent fast-food consumption represents a substantial association with major cardiovascular disease risk factors among adults in Sindh, Pakistan. Thus, public health strategies to target poor dietary habits are necessary and urgent.