Prevalence of major noncommunicable diseases and risk factors by region: Findings from the National Screening

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24079/CAJMS.2025.04.003

Keywords:

Screening, Noncommunicable diseases, Risk factors, region, Mongolia.

Abstract

Objective: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, accounting for the majority of premature deaths. Mongolia faces a particularly high burden of cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes, contributing to over 80% of total deaths. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of major NCDs and associated risk factors among the adult population of Mongolia by region. Methods: This study utilized large-scale screening data from the mass screening program of adults aged over 18 years. Results: A total of 447,409 adults were included in the analyses. High prevalence of NCD risk factors was observed, including smoking (16.6-19.1%), alcohol use (5.9-11.7%), physical inactivity (76%–80%), and insufficient fruit and vegetable intake (63%–79%). Regional comparison showed that the Northern region had the highest rates of smoking (19.2%), alcohol use (13.4%), and obesity (24.7%) (p<0.001). In contrast, Ulaanbaatar reported notably higher rates of chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer disease (82.2%–18.5%) compared to other rural regions (p<0.001). Conclusion: NCD risk factors are common across all regions of Mongolia, with clear differences between them. Notably, the urban population has higher rates of stomach and esophageal inflammation and ulcers, likely linked to lifestyle factors and obesity.

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Author Biography

Bayarbold Dangaa, The School of Public Health, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

The Ministry of Health, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

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Published

2025-12-26

How to Cite

Dangaa, B., Enkh-Amgalan, E., Batjargal, A., Yadamsuren, E., Namdag, B., Gidaagayaa, S., … Dambadarjaa, D. (2025). Prevalence of major noncommunicable diseases and risk factors by region: Findings from the National Screening . Central Asian Journal of Medical Sciences, 11(4), 176–186. https://doi.org/10.24079/CAJMS.2025.04.003

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 4 (2025)

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Articles

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