The prevalence and management of hypertension in a population of adults with type 2 diabetes in the Adamawa Region (Cameroon): A retrospective analysis

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the prevalence, treatment and control of hypertension in adult Cameroonian population in Adamawa with type 2 diabetes. Medical files of patients under follow-up at the hypertension and diabetes Unit of the Ngaoundere Regional Hospital (Adamawa Region, Cameroon) were evaluated over one year period from January 2008 to January 2009. Medical follow-up consisted of a regular monthly clinical evaluation, with measurements of anthropometric parameters and monitoring of blood pressure and fasting blood sugar. A total of 317 diabetics were surveyed in this study. The overall prevalence of hypertension was 60.3%. The prevalence of hypertension was higher for the female population (61.1%) as compared to male (58.6%). Overall, 36.7% patients (n=70) were treated for hypertension; only 5.7% of the treated patients had their blood pressure controlled. The commonly prescribed drugs were: alpha methyldopa (26%), association reserpine and chlortalidone (25%), diuretics (22%), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-inhibitors (10%), and calcium channel blockers (8%). Our study indicates a low control rate of hypertension in Cameroonian diabetic patients in our setting and underlines the need for improving their blood pressure management with effective prevention of cardiovascular risk. Keys words: Hypertension, type 2 diabetes, prevalence, drugs, control