Dietary patterns associated with hypertension prevalence in the Cameroon defence forces

Abstract

To assess the possible role of particular patterns of food consumption in the occurrence of hypertension. A cross-sectional study of 571 members of defence forces was carried out in eight military institutions in Yaounde, Cameroon. Blood pressure was measured with automatic sphygmomanometers simultaneously at both arms. Food consumption data were obtained through a food frequency questionnaire and lifestyle questionnaire was used to ascertain information on physical activity and other risk factors. Two dietary patterns were identified. The 'fruit and vegetable' pattern was typified by a high intake of fruits, vegetables, tubers and legumes. The 'meat' pattern was characterized by a high intake of bush meat, poultry and red meat. After adjustment for age, body mass index, rank, vigorous physical activity and total energy intake, the fruit and vegetable pattern was significantly associated with a reduced risk of hypertension (odds ratio (OR)=0.40; 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.20-0.83, P=0.04) when comparing the highest to the lowest quartile of dietary pattern scores. No significant relationship was apparent between the meat pattern and hypertension. Our findings suggest that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, tubers and legumes may have an important role in regulating blood pressure. More prospective and extensive data are warranted to investigate the magnitude of cardiovascular disease in that specific population.