Instrumental variable approach on analyzing risk factors associated with noncommunicable disease prevalence in Tanzania: A nonexperimental design

Background and aims: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) have emerged as a substantial burden in developing countries, representing the leading cause of mortality. Addressing this critical issue necessitates effective interventions and policy measures. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the risk factors associated with NCD prevalence in Tanzania.

Methods: This study employed a nonexperimental research design due to its ability to analyze secondary data without altering variables. The used data set of the study was sourced from National Panel Survey 2020/21 and Household Budget Survey 2017/18. The econometrics analysis applied in the study include two-stage residual inclusion (2SRI) and control function approach due to their ability to suppress endogeneity and enhance the clarity of results.

Results: The findings indicate a significant positive correlation between alcohol consumption (0.4110382, p = 0.02), cigarette smoking (0.3354297, p < 0.001), and NCDs, emphasizing the urgency of targeted interventions to mitigate these behaviors. Conversely, a negative correlation is observed between fruit and vegetable intake (-0.1063375, p < 0.001), physical exercises (-0.3744925, p < 0.001), and NCDs, underscoring the importance of promoting healthy dietary habits and frequent exercises.

Conclusion: These results accentuate the immediate need for targeted interventions and policy measures to address these risk factors and effectively combat the escalating burden of NCDs in Tanzania and similar contexts. Moreover, the need for improved public awareness campaigns and the promotion of healthy life campaigns are vital in the fight to lower the prevalence of NCDs across communities.