Predictors of all cause mortality in an island population of African descent, Tobago, West Indies, 1976-1994

ABSTRACT

The objective of this study was to evaluate the predictors of all cause mortality in a rural West Indian population. From 1976 to 1978, 92.5 percent of an adult (o 21 years) Afro-Caribbean community was examined for selected cardiovascular risk factors using a pretested questionnaire. Bloodpressure, resting ECG, fasting and 2-hour post-load blood glucose, serum uric acid and body mass index were measured. Alcohol consumption patterns were also assessed. Follow-up measurements were made over the next 18 years during return visits for medical attention and at home visits. Additional information was obtained from hospital (the only one in the island) and church records. Eighteen-year mortality studies revealed 96/482 females (19.9 percent) and 88/345 (25.5 percent) males had died. Genetic and environmental influences appear operative. Intervention to alter environmental components would reduce premature mortality (AU)