20-Year Trend of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors Urban and Rural National Capital Region of Delhi, India

This population-based study examined 20-year trends in cardiovascular disease risk factors among adults aged 35–64 years living in urban and rural areas of the National Capital Region of Delhi. By comparing two representative surveys conducted between 1991–1994 and 2010–2012, the study found substantial increases in overweight/obesity, alcohol consumption, hypertension, and elevated blood glucose levels in both settings, with particularly rapid rises in rural populations. Smoking prevalence increased among rural men, while cholesterol levels declined in urban areas but increased in rural areas. Overall, the findings indicate a worsening cardiovascular risk profile across the region, highlighting the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases and the need for strengthened prevention strategies.