2008-12-31-世界卫生组织-2009_STEPS_Country_Report_British_Virgin_Islands_142页_4mb

British Virgin Islands: STEP Risk Factor Survey Summary

Background

REPORT FROM 2009 IN THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS, PUREP ASSESSMENT OF CHRONIC DISEASET ENRISK FACTORS BASED ON 1105 PARTICIPANTS. T

Key Findings

1. Tobacco: Smoking prevalence is low (6.4%), higher among men. Most use is not daily. Significant concern over second-hand smoke exposure.

2. Alcohol: High rates of heavy drinking, especially among men. Consumption is increasing and exceeds healthy limits.

3. Diet: Low fruit and vegetable intake (<5 servings/day). Use of sugary drinks is common. Type of oil used varies (mostly vegetable or butter).

4. Physical Activity: Physical activity levels are lower among women; around 42% are physically inactive. Insufficient activity during leisure is common.

5. Obesity & Diet: Over three-quarters (74%) are overweight/obese. A third of women are obese. High waist circumference is common. Overweight is a major risk factor across all demographics.

6. Blood Pressure: Poor control is common. Almost two-thirds (69%) have uncontrolled hypertension, despite many being diagnosed.

7. Blood Sugar: One-quarter of surveyed adults (not currently medicated) have impaired fasting glucose or are pre-diabetic.

8. Combined Risks: Almost half (49%) of the working-aged population has three or more modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, including tobacco, diet, physical inactivity, hypertension, and high blood sugar.

9. Cancer Screenings: Many women lack regular mammograms or Pap tests, though breast and cervical self-examination awareness is high. Prostate screening uptake increases with age.

Recommendations

• Strengthen tobacco control policies.
• Implement strategies to reduce alcohol consumption, particularly among men.
• Improve access to and consumption of fruits and vegetables.
• Enhance sedentary reduction efforts and promote active means of transportation.
• Advance educational campaigns on diet and physical activity.
• Scale up chronic non-communicable disease surveillance systems; consider a population-level tax on sugary drinks.
• Promote the benefits of breastfeeding.
• Prioritize workplace health promotion programs.
  *es;. Educate at-risk individuals on specific dietary recommendations and physical activity levels.