Contextual and individual factors associated with arterial hypertension among Brazilian older adults (National Health Survey - 2013)

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To investigate the association of contextual and individual variables with systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) among elderly Brazilians. Cross-sectional study with data from the National Health Survey (2013) and the Atlas of Human Development in Brazil. SAH was defined by direct measurement of blood pressure and/or the use of medications for this condition. The contextual independent variables were the Municipal Human Development Index (MHDI) and the Gini Index, by Federation Unit. The individual independent variables included sociodemographic factors, health behaviors, health conditions, and the use of health service. Multilevel logistic models were used to study the associated factors. Among the 10,211 participants aged 60 years and older, the prevalence of hypertension was 66.7% (95%CI 65.1 - 68.3). After adjusting for all variables, the chance of hypertension was higher in the Federation Units with the highest MHDI, in women, aged 70 years or older, in non-whites, with one or more chronic diseases, overweight and obesity, high waist circumference, and among those who had four or more medical appointments in the previous year. On the other hand, a negative association was observed between hypertension and education. The individual profile associated with hypertension was similar to what had already been reported in the scientific literature, but it is noteworthy that the elderly residing in the higher MHDI Federation Units were more likely to have this condition, suggesting a higher survival of hypertensive patients in these regions.