Internally funded project
Knowledge and perception of cardiovascular disease and risk factors among adolescents and their parents in rural Botswana
Project Start Date: 02/02/2026
Project End / Expected Completion Date: 30/04/2027
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and sub‑Saharan Africa bears a disproportionate burden. Adolescents in the region are increasingly exposed to behavioral risk factors, yet little is known about their and their parents’ understanding of CVD and its determinants. This mixed‑methods study aims to assess the knowledge and perception of CVD and its risk factors among adolescents aged 15–19 years and their parents in the Shakawe community, Botswana. A cross‑sectional survey of at least 100 adolescents will employ the validated Heart Disease Knowledge Questionnaire and the Perception of Risk of Heart Disease Scale to quantify knowledge and risk perception. Qualitative interviews with five adolescent–parent pairs will explore beliefs, attitudes, and contextual factors influencing heart‑health behaviors. Descriptive and inferential statistics (t‑tests and χ² tests) will summarize quantitative data and examine associations with socio‑demographic variables. Thematic analysis using NVivo 12 will be used for qualitative data. Findings will inform culturally appropriate interventions to improve cardiovascular health literacy and support early prevention efforts.
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