Comparative Study of Rural and Urban Lifestyle Factors and Their Impact on Non-Communicable Diseases: A Case Study of Bhairav Tole, Ramdhuni Municipality-8, Sunsari (Rural Area) and Ward No. 3, Biratnagar Metropolitan City, Morang (Urban Area), Nepal

Comparative Study of Rural and Urban Lifestyle Factors and Their Impact on Non-Communicable Diseases: A Case Study of Bhairav Tole, Ramdhuni Municipality-8, Sunsari (Rural Area) and Ward No. 3, Biratnagar Metropolitan City, Morang (Urban Area), Nepal

Author: Dr Tika Prasad Niraula, Ramdhuni-8, Sunsari, Email: niraula_tp@yahoo.com

Abstract:
Since non-communicable diseases (NCDs) cause more than 71% of all deaths in Nepal, they are becoming a major public health concern. In this study, the relationship between NCD risks and rural and urban populations' eating patterns, levels of physical activity, and substance use is compared. Using stratified random sampling, 120 participants (60 from rural and 60 from urban areas) were chosen for the cross-sectional study. Structured questionnaires were used to gather data, and SPSS was used for analysis. The findings showed notable disparities: whereas rural populations reported greater rates of alcohol and tobacco use (18.3% vs. 10%), urban inhabitants were more likely to be sedentary (χ² = 17.638, p < 0.01) and consume fast food (χ² = 7.958, p = 0.093). ccording to correlation analysis, substance use and the prevalence of NCDs were positively correlated (r = 0.338, p < 0.01), while urbanization and physical activity were negatively correlated (r = -0.378, p < 0.01). The study emphasizes the necessity for focused public health initiatives: whereas rural areas need methods to lower alcohol and tobacco use, urban areas should prioritize encouraging physical activity and a nutritious diet. These results offer evidence-based suggestions for Nepal's NCD risk management.

Keywords:
Non-communicable diseases, rural lifestyle, urban lifestyle, physical activity, dietary habits, sedentary behavior, tobacco and alcohol consumption