Awareness of Non-Communicable Disease Risk Factors Among Market Women in Onitsha, Anambra State

Non-communicable diseases, including hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, represent an escalating public health burden in Nigeria, yet awareness of their risk factors remains inadequate among vulnerable informal sector populations. This study assesses awareness of non-communicable disease risk factors among market women in Onitsha, Anambra State, South East Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 350 female traders selected through systematic random sampling from three major markets. A structured interviewer-administered questionnaire assessed knowledge of non-communicable disease risk factors including physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, tobacco exposure, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity. Blood pressure and body mass index were measured using standardised protocols to establish clinical correlates of identified risk. Findings reveal that awareness of individual risk factors is variable, with hypertension risk recognised by 71 percent of respondents but physical inactivity as a risk factor acknowledged by only 29 percent. Overweight and obesity prevalence in the sample is 43 percent and 18 percent respectively, reflecting high unrecognised metabolic risk. Only 24 percent of respondents engage in regular deliberate physical activity, with occupational physical demands erroneously considered sufficient by the majority. Recommendations include targeted health education interventions at market sites, community blood pressure screening programmes, integration of non-communicable disease prevention messaging into women's group activities, and training of peer health advocates. Keywords: non-communicable diseases, risk factors, market women, Onitsha, health awareness