Screening for cardiometabolic disease risk factors: a hospital-based community health screening program in urban Cameroon (URBACAM-D)

Background Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), especially cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs), such as hypertension, obesity, and diabetes, are emerging public health threats in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). In Cameroon, NCDs account for 31% of deaths, with cardiovascular diseases contributing to 14% of deaths. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of undiagnosed CMD risk factors, explore associated sociodemographic and behavioral determinants among urban residents in Douala, Cameroon, and evaluate the feasibility of a hospital-based community screening strategy. Methods We conducted a hospital-based cross-sectional screening over two days in December 2024 at the Ndogbati Protestant Hospital of Douala. Eligible participants were adults aged ≥18 years from the surrounding community who voluntarily attended the screening. A convenience sampling method was used where participants voluntarily participated in free assessments of blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), blood glucose, hemoglobin, cholesterol, hepatitis B and C screening, and resting electrocardiograms. Participants completed pre- and post-screening questionnaires capturing sociodemographic, lifestyle, and psychosocial data. Associations between CMD related-risk factors and outcomes were assessed using chi-square tests and logistic regression models, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05. Results Among 172 participants, 39.1% had Stage 2 hypertension, 32.6% were obese, 24.1% screened positive for depression (PHQ-2 ≥3), and 39.5% reported sedentary lifestyle. Depressive symptoms were independently associated with hypertension (adjusted odds ratio, aOR = 0.4, P = 0.038). Female gender (aOR = 4.3, P = 0.007) was significantly associated with obesity. Conclusions This study highlights the burden of undiagnosed CMD risk factors in an urban Cameroonian population. Screening initiatives are necessary for improving early detection and guiding public health interventions to reduce morbidity and mortality.