The Association Between Non-medical Social Needs and the 10-Year Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases: A Population-based Study in Southeast of Iran

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading global cause of mortality, with social determinants of health (SDH) significantly influencing outcomes. Non-medical social needs remain understudied in CVD risk assessment, particularly in underserved populations. Objectives: This study examines the association between non-medical social needs and 10-year CVD risk among middle-aged adults in Zahedan, Iran. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 with 315 participants (aged 30 - 59) attending educational clinics of Zahedan University of Medical Sciences by convenience sampling. Data were collected using the World Health Organization (WHO) CVD Risk Prediction Chart and the WellRx Questionnaire (assessing social determinants). Logistic regression (Backward Model) analysis identified predictors of elevated CVD risk. Results: In the analysis, four non-medical social determinants independently predicted high 10-year CVD risk (≥ 20%): Trouble paying transportation costs [odds ratio (OR) = 4.54, 95% CI: 2.24 - 9.21, P < 0.001], reduction in food consumption (OR = 3.17, 95% CI: 1.57 - 6.37, P = 0.001), unsustainable job (OR = 2.60, 95% CI: 1.36 - 4.95, P = 0.004), and addiction (self or family member) (OR = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.11 - 3.69, P = 0.022). Conclusions: Non-medical social needs strongly correlate with CVD risk in Zahedan. Targeted interventions — improving transportation, job security, reducing food insecurity, and expanding addiction support — could mitigate CVD burden. These findings advocate for integrating SDH into cardiovascular prevention strategies to advance health equity.