KUMJ | VOL. 23 | NO. 2 | ISSUE 90 | APRIL - JUNE, 2025
Study of Neighborhood environment for Cardiovascular Health in a Squatter Area in Nepal
Oli N, Vaidya A, Rijal D, Suwal PS, Maharjan B
Abstract: Background
Behavioral risk factors for cardiovascular diseases are prevalent among the urban
poor in Nepal. Understanding environmental factors such as the availability of
retailers selling tobacco, alcohol, and junk food, as well as neighbourhood access to
and the built environment’s support for physical activity is critical for addressing the
rising burden of cardiovascular disease in the community.
Objective
To identify aspects of the community environment that contribute to behavioral risk
factors, focusing on the food supply system, built environment, walkability, and the
marketing, availability, and accessibility of tobacco and alcohol.
Method
Spatial data were collected in the Sinamangal-Minbhawan squatter area of
Kathmandu using a mixed-method approach. Geographic Information System tool,
direct field observations, including spot observation and transect walk, and Market
Basket Surveys were done by a trained research team during the period March-May
2022. Data were analyzed using methodological triangulation, combining interviews,
observations, GPS data, and Google Earth imagery in ArcMap 10.8. Thematic analysis
of market basket survey interviews involved coding transcripts for cardiovascular
disease-related behaviors, with codes refined into six key themes, including
sociodemographic characteristics.
Result
We reported a few vegetable outlets and no fruit shops. There were 84 fast-food
outlets and local restaurants with junk food and soft drinks available. We observed
77 tobacco outlets with a variety of tobacco products easily available to all. There
were 48 alcohol outlets in the area, which, except for four outlets, were present
together with tobacco and junk food outlets. Tobacco and alcohol products were
largely consumed by men of all age groups.
Conclusion
Community-based health programs can raise awareness about the importance of
healthy behavior. Advocacy efforts to promote policies that support improved access
to healthy foods, smoke-free public spaces, and safe environments for physical
activity are important to provide community members with healthy choices.
Keyword : Food supply environment, Geographic information system, Market basket survey, Spatial analysis