An epidemiological study of prevalence of hypertension and its risk factors in a rural community of South India

Abstract

Background: Chronic non-communicable diseases are important among adult population all over the world. Hypertension (HTN) is the most common cardiovascular disorder accounting for 20-50% of all cardiovascular deaths. The prevalence of HTN is increasing in both rural and urban communities. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of HTN and its associated risk factors in a rural population. Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted at rural areas of South India. The sociodemographic variables and risk factors were obtained by interviewing the participants in a predesigned semi-structured questionnaire. The sample size was calculated by the prevalence of HTN in previous studies and 650 participants were included. The blood pressure was assessed and classified according to the Joint National Committee VII classification. Statistical analysis was done using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test of significance. Results: Out of the 650 adults surveyed, 92 individuals (14.1%) were found to be suffering from HTN. Among males, 58 (16.2%) had HTN and 92 (25.7%) were prehypertensives, and among females, 34 (11.6%) had HTN and 71 (24.2%) were prehypertensives. The prevalence rate of HTN shows an upward trend as age advances. The prevalence rate was high among males, higher socioeconomic class, and among the highly educated groups. The risk factors such as tobacco usage, alcohol consumption, additional salt intake, family history of HTN, obesity, high waist-hip ratio, and diabetes mellitus were found to have statistically significant association with HTN. Conclusions: There is an increase in the prevalence of HTN in the rural communities of South India. Population-based prevention strategies and evidence-based clinical strategies should focus on early detection and appropriate treatment.