RAG-MENA-2: CV RISK PROFILE AND LIFESTYLE PATTERN IN THE MENA

Abstract

There are large and widening global disparities in hypertension prevalence and control in the Mena region. Almost 40% of adults in the region are either overweight or obese with high rates of childhood obesity. More than a third of the adult population in these countries having either hypertension or diabetes or both. Age at onset of CVD is lower and HTN prevalence is increasing.The prevalence of hypertension in Lebanon increased from 23.1% as reported in 2005 to 35% in 2015 and 37% in 2019. 64.1% of them were aware of it, and only 62.6% of treated participants had a controlled BP. Since only around half of patients with hypertension in Lebanon are aware of their disease as reported previously, screening for HTN and increasing awareness are of tremendous importance for the population in Lebanon. Collaborative efforts from national and international stakeholders are urgently needed to combat the emerging hypertension burden in low- and middle-income countries. Stakeholders should promote blood pressure screening, access to affordable healthcare and antihypertensive medications, and adherence to antihypertensive treatment to improve hypertension control in low- and middle-income countries. Implementation of innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable programs for hypertension prevention and control should be a public health priority for these countries.