Abstract:
Introduction Globally, there are more deaths each year from cardiovascular diseases (CVD) than from any other cause. Low and middle income countries account for over 80% of CVD related deaths, many of which could have been prevented by controlling modifiable risk factors, early detection and treatment. The Cook Islands STEPS survey found 76.6% of the population to be high-risk for noncommunicable diseases (NCD). This shows that in the Western Pacific Region, NCDs continue to contribute to a large burden of deaths and disabilities with significant social and economic consequences. This study aims to identify barriers to early identification and management of CVD risk in the Cook Islands adult population from the perspective of local health professionals working in primary health care. Methods Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 participants employed by the Cook Islands Ministry of Health to ascertain what they consider are barriers to efficient early identification and management of CVD risk. Data were analysed using a general inductive approach. Summary of data Barriers to early identification and management of CVD risk were classified under the following major themes: • Individual and Interpersonal Barriers • Social and Environmental Barriers • Barriers to the Delivery of Primary Health Care Conclusion A coordinated approach by government, non-government and private organizations focused on prevention and management strategies through a primary health care approach will be required to tackle the rising tsunami of CVD and avert an unaffordable health care emergency. In particular, attention to lifestyle and environmental issues could benefit the whole population. The introduction of a web-based assessment and management system, along with the provision of fundamental resources such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) could improve early identification and management of CVD risk among the Cook Island population.