Association between solid fuel use and the risk of hypertension in China.

Abstract

To assess the association between solid fuel use for cooking or heating and the risk of hypertension among individuals over 45 years of age. Baseline questionnaires were used to collect self-reported primary cooking and heating fuel usage. Outcomes were defined as the time of first diagnosis of hypertension. Data were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models. Solid fuel use for cooking was associated with a higher risk of hypertension. The association between solid fuel for cooking and hypertension remained significant among residents in north China, individuals aged 45-65 years, urban residents, and non-smokers. Solid fuel for heating was associated with a higher risk of hypertension only in South China. Solid fuel use may result in an increased risk of hypertension. Our findings further emphasize the health hazards of solid fuel for cooking and heating.