Prevalence and risk factors of isolated systolic hypertension among the elderly population in Davangere, Karnataka

Abstract

Background: The WHO has estimated that globally hypertension is directly responsible for about 62% of cerebrovascular disease and 49% of ischemic heart disease. The risks of stroke and coronary heart disease are directly related to both levels of systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Research studies have shown that isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) confers a substantial cardiovascular risk and stroke; however, prevention and treatment lead to lowering of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Objectives: The objectives of this study were (1) to assess the prevalence of ISH in population aged ≥60 years in the rural field practice area of JJM Medical College, Davangere, and (2) to identify risk factors of ISH. Materials and Methods: It is a community-based cross-sectional study conducted among the elderly ≥60 years of age in the rural field practice area of JJM Medical College, Davangere. Statistical analysis was performed using, percentage, proportion, Chi‑square, and multivariate analysis. Results: A total of 780 subjects were studied. Majority of the elderly in our study belonged to the age group of 60–69 years (59.5%) with the mean age of 65 years (standard deviation ± 5.44). It was observed that majority of the elderly were males (55.4%) and majority were Hindu by religion (93.3%). In the present study, the overall prevalence of ISH was 25%, which was 26.4% in males and 23.6% among females. A significant increase in the prevalence of ISH was seen with an increase in age. Conclusion: Multivariate analysis showed age, high salt intake, less fruits consumption, lack of physical activity, and high body mass index which were significant independent risk factors of ISH.