The study found significant differences in hypertension, obesity and diabetes by gender, ethnicity, education, employment, smoking habits, and cholesterol levels between the three wealth groups. Among the urban poor, low education, unemployment and smoking habits were more prevalent, while high cholesterol was more prevalent among the urban rich. These findings indicate significant disparities in education, employment, and lifestyle habits across wealth groups, with urban poor groups lacking education and employment. Interventions targeting increased access to education, additional investment in specific areas where outcomes are worst, and interventions to improve equitable access to healthcare are needed.
Read the full article here: Social determinants and risk factors associated with non-communicable diseases among urban population in Nepal: A comparative study of poor, middle and rich wealth categories of urban population using STEPS survey
Kakchapati S, Neupane R, Baral KS, Shrestha G, Joshi D, Dawkins B, et al. (2025). PLoS One 20(5): e0307622. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0307622