Factors Associated With Knowledge and Control of Arterial Hypertension in the Canary Islands

Abstract

Introduction and objectivesTo analyze the factors associated with knowledge and control of hypertension in the adult population of the Canary Islands (18-75 years). MethodsWe recruited a random sample of the general population aged ≥18 years. Hypertension was defined as systolic/diastolic blood pressure ≥140/90mmHg or known hypertension (self-declared, or controlled hypertension <140/90mmHg). The bivariate association of known and controlled hypertension with age, sex, anthropometry, serum lipids, medication, and lifestyle was corroborated by adjusting a multivariate logistic model. ResultsWe included 6675 participants. The prevalence of hypertension was higher in men (40% vs 31%, P<.001), who also had a lower frequency of treated and controlled hypertension. Female sex (P<.001), age ≥55 years (P<.001), obesity (P<.001), and diabetes (P<.001) were associated with known hypertension. The modifiable factors that, in spite of treatment, increased the risk of poor control of hypertension were alcohol consumption (>30g/day, odds ratio [OR]=2.4, P<.001; >15-≤30g/day, OR=2, P=.009; >5-≤15, g/day, OR=1.83, P=.004), obesity (body mass index ≥30, OR=2, P=.003; >24.9-<30, OR=1.7, P=.024), serum cholesterol >250mg/dL (OR=1.6, P=.006) and elevated heart rate (>80 bpm, OR=1.45, P=.045; >70-≤80 bpm, OR=1.36, P=.038). ConclusionsThe awareness of hypertension increases with frequent use of the health system and with factors associated with known hypertension: female sex, age, underlying health problems. The modifiable factors associated with poor control of known hypertension are alcohol consumption, obesity, elevated heart rate, and hypercholesterolemia.