Evaluation of Role of Increased Perceived Stress Score and Body Mass Index in Causing Secondary Systemic Hypertension in Patients of Hepatitis C

Abstract

Objective: To determine stress level in medical ward patients of Hepatitis C visiting Lahore General Hospital, Lahore, Mayo Hospital Lahore and DHQ Layyah. To determine the role of increased stress level and BMI in developing systemic hypertension. Design: Descriptive type of cross sectional. Place and duration of study: It took the 8 months starting from August 2, 2017 to April 7, 2018 in Lahore General Hospital, Mayo Hospital Lahore and DHQ Layyah. Subjects and methods: Purposive sample 124 ward patients with sociodemographic questionnaire, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and BP recording were filled by research participants. Results: Our study showed a significant positive correlation between Perceived Stress Score, Body Mass Index (BMI) and Blood Pressure both SBP as well as DBP. There was a positive correlation in the formal education and developing the perceived stress and it could be designated to the higher work burden and lack of satisfaction with the job (p<0.05). Our study indicated statistically a very strong relationship between perceived stress and developing prehypertension and hypertension stage 1 (p<0.001). Conclusion: The height, weight, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were higher among males as compared with females. Prevalence of prehypertension among overweight/obese and tense subjects suggested an early diagnosis of prehypertension and intervention including life style modification, particularly weight management.