Cardiovascular Disease Prevention — MCQs
Among the following, most reliable test for screening of diabetes mellitus?
Which of the following is not the criteria for diagnosis of Metabolic syndrome?
Which of the following is a non- modifiable risk factor for CHD -
On republic day, a camp was organized and people were screened for Hypertension by checking BP and for diabetes by checking their BMI and Blood sugar level, which level of prevention is this?
What is WHO's global target for the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases by 2025 regarding hypertension reduction?
In community health programs, a population of 1000 is typically covered by which healthcare worker?
Which of the following is the LEAST important step in the national TB control program?
All of the following are risk factors for atherosclerosis EXCEPT which of the following?
What is the primary method of primordial prevention for Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)?
What is the primary health concern addressed by the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK)?
Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Indian Medical PG Practice Questions and MCQs
Question 1: Among the following, most reliable test for screening of diabetes mellitus?
- A. Urine sugar
- B. Random sugar
- C. Fasting sugar (Correct Answer)
- D. Glucose tolerance test
Explanation: ***Fasting sugar*** - A **fasting plasma glucose** (FPG) test is the most common and reliable initial test for screening for **diabetes mellitus** because it measures blood glucose after an overnight fast (typically 8-12 hours), providing a baseline level unaffected by recent food intake [1]. - A fasting glucose level of **≥ 126 mg/dL** (7.0 mmol/L) on two separate occasions is diagnostic of diabetes, making it an excellent screening tool for identifying individuals with impaired glucose metabolism [1]. *Random sugar* - A random plasma glucose test can be used to diagnose diabetes if the level is **≥ 200 mg/dL** (11.1 mmol/L) in a symptomatic individual, but it is less reliable for screening asymptomatic individuals due to its variability depending on recent food intake [1]. - Because it can be measured at any time of day without regard to the last meal, it has a **lower sensitivity** for detecting early stages of diabetes compared to fasting glucose. *Glucose tolerance test* - An **oral glucose tolerance test** (OGTT) is highly sensitive and specific for diagnosing diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance, but it is more cumbersome and time-consuming, involving multiple blood draws over two hours after consuming a sugary drink. - While it is a definitive diagnostic test, its complexity makes it **less practical for routine screening** in large populations compared to simpler tests like fasting plasma glucose. *Urine sugar* - The presence of glucose in urine (glycosuria) indicates that blood glucose levels have exceeded the **renal threshold** (typically around 180 mg/dL), meaning the kidneys are unable to reabsorb all the glucose. - This is a **less sensitive and specific** method for screening, as it only becomes positive once blood glucose is significantly elevated, and it does not detect milder forms of impaired glucose metabolism or early diabetes.
Question 2: Which of the following is not the criteria for diagnosis of Metabolic syndrome?
- A. High LDL (Correct Answer)
- B. Hyperiglyceridemia
- C. Hypertension
- D. Central obesity
Explanation: ***High LDL*** - While **high LDL (low-density lipoprotein)** is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease [1], it is **not** one of the specific diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome. - The criteria for metabolic syndrome focus on a cluster of metabolic abnormalities associated with insulin resistance. *Hypertriglyceridemia* - **Elevated triglycerides** (typically ≥ 150 mg/dL or on drug treatment for elevated triglycerides) is one of the key diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome. - It reflects impaired lipid metabolism often associated with insulin resistance [2]. *Hypertension* - **Elevated blood pressure** (systolic ≥ 130 mmHg or diastolic ≥ 85 mmHg, or on antihypertensive drug treatment) is a core component of metabolic syndrome. - Hypertension in this context is often linked to underlying insulin resistance. *Central obesity* - **Increased waist circumference** (varying by ethnicity and sex, e.g., >102 cm in men and >88 cm in women for adults of European descent) is a primary criterion for metabolic syndrome. - It is a strong indicator of visceral fat accumulation, which is closely linked to insulin resistance [3].
Question 3: Which of the following is a non- modifiable risk factor for CHD -
- A. Diabetes
- B. Smoking
- C. Hypertension
- D. Old age (Correct Answer)
Explanation: Old age - Age is a **non-modifiable risk factor** for Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) because it is an inherent biological process that cannot be changed [3]. - The risk of developing CHD **increases with age** due to cumulative exposure to other risk factors and natural wear and tear on the cardiovascular system [3]. *Diabetes* - Diabetes is a **modifiable risk factor** for CHD because it can be managed and controlled through lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring [2]. - **Poorly controlled diabetes** significantly increases the risk of heart disease by damaging blood vessels and promoting atherosclerosis. *Smoking* - Smoking is a highly **modifiable risk factor** for CHD as it can be completely stopped [1], [2]. - **Cessation of smoking** significantly reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke over time [1]. *Hypertension* - Hypertension is a **modifiable risk factor** for CHD because blood pressure can be lowered through lifestyle interventions, such as diet and exercise, and pharmacotherapy [2]. - **Uncontrolled high blood pressure** places increased stress on the heart and blood vessels, accelerating the development of atherosclerosis [1].
Question 4: On republic day, a camp was organized and people were screened for Hypertension by checking BP and for diabetes by checking their BMI and Blood sugar level, which level of prevention is this?
- A. Secondary (Correct Answer)
- B. Tertiary
- C. Primary
- D. Primordial
Explanation: ***Secondary*** - This level of prevention focuses on **early detection** and prompt treatment of a disease to halt or slow its progression. - **Screening for hypertension and diabetes** through BP checks, BMI, and blood sugar levels aims to identify these conditions in their early stages before overt symptoms appear. *Tertiary* - This level of prevention involves measures to **reduce the impact** of an established disease, prevent complications, and improve quality of life. - Examples include rehabilitation programs or medications for long-term disease management, which are not described in the scenario. *Primary* - This level of prevention aims to **prevent a disease from occurring** in the first place, typically by addressing risk factors. - Examples include vaccination, health education on healthy eating, or promoting physical activity to prevent the development of hypertension or diabetes. *Primordial* - This is the **earliest level of prevention**, targeting the underlying social, environmental, and economic conditions that contribute to risk factors for disease. - It involves interventions to *prevent the emergence of risk factors* in populations, such as broad public health policies or community-wide initiatives.
Question 5: What is WHO's global target for the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases by 2025 regarding hypertension reduction?
- A. 25% (Correct Answer)
- B. 35%
- C. 55%
- D. 75%
Explanation: ***25%*** - The World Health Organization (WHO) set a global target to achieve a **25% relative reduction in the prevalence of raised blood pressure** (hypertension) by 2025. - This target is part of the WHO's **Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (2013-2025)**, one of nine voluntary global targets aiming to reduce premature mortality from NCDs. - The target allows for flexibility: countries can either achieve the 25% relative reduction or contain the prevalence according to national circumstances. *35%* - A 35% reduction in hypertension prevalence is **not a specific global target** set by the WHO for 2025. - The WHO established standardized targets (including 25% for hypertension) to enable consistent monitoring and comparison across countries. *55%* - A 55% reduction is **significantly higher** than the internationally agreed-upon global target for hypertension reduction by 2025. - Such an aggressive target would be challenging to achieve systematically across diverse healthcare systems worldwide within this timeframe. *75%* - A 75% reduction in hypertension prevalence represents an **unrealistically high goal** for the WHO's 2025 targets. - Global health targets are designed to be ambitious yet attainable, balancing aspiration with feasibility to encourage widespread implementation and measurable progress.
Question 6: In community health programs, a population of 1000 is typically covered by which healthcare worker?
- A. ASHA worker (Correct Answer)
- B. ANM (Auxiliary Nurse Midwife)
- C. AWW (Anganwadi Worker)
- D. Trained dai
Explanation: ***ASHA worker*** - An **ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) worker** is the primary community health worker who covers a population of **1,000** in community health programs. - Under the **National Health Mission (NHM)**, one ASHA is appointed for every **1,000 population** in rural areas or per village. - Their roles include facilitating access to health services, health awareness, promoting institutional deliveries, immunization, and serving as a bridge between the community and the public health system. *Trained dai* - **Trained dais (Traditional Birth Attendants)** were historically used but this program has been largely discontinued. - The focus has shifted from home deliveries by dais to **institutional deliveries** assisted by skilled birth attendants. - While they may have covered populations in the past, they are not part of the current structured community health workforce. *ANM (Auxiliary Nurse Midwife)* - An **ANM** serves a **much larger population** of approximately **5,000** at the sub-center level. - They provide primary health services including maternal and child health, family planning, immunization, and basic curative care. - One ANM is typically posted at each sub-center. *AWW (Anganwadi Worker)* - An **AWW** covers a **smaller population** of approximately **400-800 in rural areas** and up to **1,000 in urban/tribal areas**. - They primarily focus on **early childhood care and development** through Anganwadi centers under the ICDS scheme. - Their functions include supplementary nutrition, preschool education, and health and nutrition education for women and children.
Question 7: Which of the following is the LEAST important step in the national TB control program?
- A. Treatment of sputum positive cases
- B. BCG vaccination (Correct Answer)
- C. Isolation of sputum positive cases
- D. Treatment of contacts
Explanation: ***BCG vaccination*** - While BCG vaccination offers some protection against severe forms of TB, particularly in children, it has **limited efficacy** against adult pulmonary TB, which is the primary driver of transmission. - The national TB control program's main focus is on **interrupting transmission** by identifying and effectively treating infectious cases. *Treatment of sputum positive cases* - This is a cornerstone of TB control because **sputum-positive cases** are the primary source of airborne transmission. - Effective treatment rapidly renders patients **non-infectious**, preventing further spread of the disease within the community. *Isolation of sputum positive cases* - **Isolation** of highly infectious individuals helps to prevent the immediate spread of *Mycobacterium tuberculosis* to others in close contact. - This is a crucial **infection control measure**, especially in healthcare settings and within households. *Treatment of contacts* - Treating contacts, especially those with **latent TB infection (LTBI)** or who are at high risk of progression to active disease (e.g., immunocompromised individuals), is vital for preventing the development of new active cases. - This strategy targets the **prevention of future active disease** in individuals already exposed to the bacterium.
Question 8: All of the following are risk factors for atherosclerosis EXCEPT which of the following?
- A. Hypercholesterolemia
- B. Smoking
- C. Hypertension
- D. Normal LDL cholesterol (Correct Answer)
Explanation: ***Normal LDL cholesterol*** - **Normal LDL cholesterol** levels indicate a healthy lipid profile, which is protective against rather than a risk factor for **atherosclerosis**. - **Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)** is often referred to as "bad cholesterol" because high levels contribute to plaque buildup in arteries [1]. *Hypercholesterolemia* - **Hypercholesterolemia**, particularly elevated **LDL cholesterol**, is a primary independent risk factor for the development and progression of **atherosclerosis** [1]. - Excess cholesterol leads to the formation of **fatty streaks** and **atheromatous plaques** within arterial walls [2]. *Smoking* - **Smoking** severely damages the **endothelium**, making blood vessels more susceptible to plaque formation and promoting **atherosclerosis**. - It also reduces **HDL cholesterol**, increases **oxidative stress**, and promotes **inflammation**, all contributing to arterial damage [1]. *Hypertension* - **Hypertension** (high blood pressure) causes chronic mechanical stress on the arterial walls, leading to **endothelial injury** and dysfunction [3]. - This damage facilitates the infiltration of lipids and inflammatory cells, accelerating the development of **atherosclerotic plaques** [2].
Question 9: What is the primary method of primordial prevention for Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)?
- A. Lifestyle change (Correct Answer)
- B. Coronary bypass
- C. Treatment of CAD
- D. Screening for hypertension
Explanation: ***Lifestyle change*** - **Primordial prevention** aims to prevent the development of risk factors themselves, which is best achieved through promoting healthy behaviors like diet, exercise, and avoiding tobacco at the population level. - This approach acts *before* the onset of risk factors, addressing societal and environmental determinants of health. - Examples include promoting healthy eating habits in schools, creating walkable communities, and tobacco-free environments. *Coronary bypass* - **Coronary bypass surgery** is a treatment for established CAD with significant blockages, not a preventive measure. - It falls under the category of **tertiary prevention**, aiming to reduce complications and improve quality of life in existing disease. *Treatment of CAD* - **Treating CAD** (e.g., medications like statins or antiplatelets, procedures like angioplasty) is a form of **secondary** or **tertiary prevention**. - It focuses on managing existing disease or preventing its progression, rather than preventing the initial development of risk factors. *Screening for hypertension* - **Screening** is a form of **secondary prevention** aimed at early detection of risk factors or disease. - While important, it occurs *after* risk factors have already developed, unlike primordial prevention which prevents risk factors from emerging.
Question 10: What is the primary health concern addressed by the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK)?
- A. Adult chronic diseases
- B. Elderly health
- C. Non-communicable diseases in the youth
- D. Comprehensive healthcare for children from birth to 18 years (Correct Answer)
Explanation: **Comprehensive healthcare for children from birth to 18 years** - The **Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK)** is a national program explicitly designed to provide comprehensive health screening and early intervention for 0-18 year-olds - Its focus is on detecting and managing the **4 D's**: Defects at birth, Deficiencies, Diseases, and Developmental delays - The program provides regular health check-ups, early detection of health conditions, referral for treatment, and promotes healthy development across this critical age group *Adult chronic diseases* - While public health initiatives address adult chronic diseases, they are not the primary focus of the **RBSK** program, which targets a younger demographic - Programs like the **National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases & Stroke (NPCDCS)** are more aligned with adult chronic disease management *Elderly health* - **RBSK** is specifically focused on the health of children and adolescents, not the elderly population - **National Programme for Healthcare of the Elderly (NPHCE)** is a dedicated initiative for elderly health *Non-communicable diseases in the youth* - While **RBSK** does address some non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through early detection and management, its scope is much broader, encompassing all 4 D's - RBSK aims for **holistic child health** rather than exclusively targeting NCDs in youth, which is a subset of its overall mandate
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