Prevalence Of Hypertension Research Articles

ANALYSIS OF HEMODIALYSIS SERVICE UTILIZATION BY JKN PARTICIPANTS IN THE SPECIAL REGION OF YOGYAKARTA: AN ANALYSIS OF BPJS KESEHATAN CLAIM DATA IN 2023

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has become a serious global health problem with significant socio-economic implications. This study aims to analyze the determinants of the utilization of hemodialysis services for National Health Insurance (JKN) participants in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) in 2023. The study employs a cross-sectional design to analyze secondary data from the BPJS Kesehatan claim database in 2020, focusing on JKN participants receiving dialysis services at Advanced Referral Health Facilities (FKRTL). Data extraction is followed by analysis using STATA software, which includes univariate and bivariate analyses, multicollinearity and overdispersion tests, model comparison via Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), and multivariate analysis through Poisson regression and Binomial Negative methods. A total of 3,220 participants (0.089%) were enrolled in the study. The highest distribution of participants was in Sleman Regency (36.49%), followed by Bantul (29.53%), and Yogya City (25.96%). From the results of the binomial regression analysis, it was found that the age factor had a significant negative influence (p=0.000) with a coefficient of -0.0046 and an IRR of 0.9954, which means that every increase in age by one year will decrease the frequency of visits by 0.46%. The prevalence of diabetes (3.1%) and hypertension (10.2%) which exceed the national average indicates a high risk factor for CKD in this region is high. The age factor and location of health facilities in SLEMAN Regency significantly affected the frequency, while the segment group, gender, and nursing class rights did not show significant influence.

Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment and Control of Hypertension in Residents’ Sample of Luanda, Angola

Hypertension (HTN) is an important risk factor for cardiovascular complications and is considered a public health problem worldwide. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of HTN in a population sample in Luanda, Angola. A cross-sectional study was carried out which included 1480 individuals, between May 2018 and June 2019; we recruited participants at three different points of the city. Blood pressure (BP) was measured with semi-automatic device (Omron®, EM-7131-E). For each participant, three BP measurements were taken after 5 minutes resting and the mean of the two last measurements was used for systolic and diastolic BP. HTN was defined as BP ≥140/90 mmHg or use of antihypertensive drugs. The sample included mostly young people (39.7±11.6 years old) and male (69.3%). HTN prevalence was 34.9%; 47.4% of patients were aware of their condition; 36.8% were taking medication and of these only 35.8% had BP under control. There was a positive correlation between BP and age. The prevalence of HTN was high, almost half of the patients were unaware and, among the hypertensive patients who were under medication, most of them did not have their BP under control. HTN prevalence was high; awareness, treatment and control were low.

Hepatic encephalopathy in non-cirrhotic portal hypertension.

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is traditionally associated with hepatic parenchymal diseases, such as acute liver failure and cirrhosis. Its prevalence in non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH) patients, extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO), and non-cirrhotic portal fibrosis (NCPF) is less well described. HE in NCPH allows one to study the effect of portosystemic shunting and ammonia without significant hepatic parenchymal injury. The current review narrates the spectrum and management of hepatic encephalopathy in NCPH patients. We synthesized data from various studies on the occurrence and management of HE in NCPH, mainly EHPVO, idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (INCPH), and porto-sinusoidal vascular disease (PSVD). The prevalence of minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) in NCPH is reported from 12 to 60%, depending on the condition and diagnostic criteria. MHE was reported in nearly a third of EHPVO patients. Studies show that venous ammonia levels are significantly elevated in patients with MHE and spontaneous shunts (82.4 ± 20.3 vs. 47.1 ± 16.7 µmol/L, P = 0.001). Large portosystemic shunts substantially increase the risk of HE, with 46-71% of patients with persistent or recurrent HE having identifiable shunts. Management of HE in NCPH primarily focuses on reducing ammonia levels through lactulose, which has shown improvement in 53% of patients with MHE after three months (P = 0.001). Shunt occlusion in patients with large portosystemic shunts is helpful in selected cases. HE in NCPH, particularly in EHPVO, is associated with elevated ammonia levels and spontaneous shunts. Despite the high prevalence of HE in NCPH, this is still a neglected aspect in the care of NCPH. A high index of suspicion and the application of appropriate screening tools are crucial for timely diagnosis and management. HE screening tools that are well-studied in cirrhosis, are also valid in NCPH. Effective management strategies include lactulose, rifaximin, dietary modifications, and shunt embolisation in some cases. Future research should focus on the long-term natural history and efficacy of treatment strategies in this population.

Effect of individual health perception, health consultation, and other risk factors on undiagnosed hypertension in South Africa

BackgroundSimilar to other nations, hypertension control is a challenge for public health in South Africa. To control hypertension, the condition must be screened and diagnosed in the public health system. This study examines how the prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension is influenced by various risk factors including demographic, socioeconomic, environmental, and behavioural factors, with primary focus on self-perceived health well-being and time since the last healthcare consultation.MethodsThe study utilized data from the National Income Dynamics Study (NiDS), a panel survey conducted approximately every two years between 2008 and 2017. Participants aged 15 years and older with at least two blood pressure measurements were included. The sample included 15,712 unique individuals (60.0% women) and 31,340 observations from the five survey waves (5,357 in 2008; 5,206 in 2010/11; 6,385 in 2012; 7,060 in 2014/15; and 7,332 in 2017). Both descriptive and analytical methods were used to study undiagnosed hypertension. Multilevel logistic regression was used to explore the relationship between undiagnosed hypertension with various risk factors including perceived health well-being and time since last health consultation.ResultsThe study showed that in 2008 (wave 1) and in 2017 (wave 5), approximately 53.5% and 42.6% respectively, of individuals aged 15 and above were unaware they could be hypertensive. Those who perceived their health as very good or excellent were respectively 2.15, 95% CI [1.89–2.44] and 3.29, 95% CI [2.85–3.80] times more likely to have undiagnosed hypertension, compared to those who perceived their health as fair or poor. Additionally, the risk of having undiagnosed hypertension increased gradually with time since last consultation on one’s health. Those whose last consultation was more than two years ago were 12.10, 95% CI [10.50–13.90] times more likely to have undiagnosed hypertension compared to those who had consulted within the last 30 days.ConclusionGiven that hypertension is often asymptomatic, self-perceived health can be misleading. This underscores the need for health programs to emphasize the importance of regular blood pressure checkups. Regular consultations with healthcare providers are crucial for early detection and management of hypertension.

PREVALENCE OF HYPERTENSION IN MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS OF SMS, MEDICAL COLLEGE, JAIPUR AND ASSESSING THEIR AWARENESS ABOUT HYPERTENSION AND LIFESTYLE MEASURES TO CURB IT

Objective: Hypertension presents a significant public health challenge in India, particularly among medical professionals who are notably vulnerable to this condition. Assessing their awareness about hypertension and lifestyle measures is crucial for effective intervention. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at SMS Medical College, Jaipur, involving 220 medical professionals aged 23 to 60 years, including 145 males and 75 females. The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of hypertension, assess knowledge regarding the condition, and gauge awareness of lifestyle interventions to curb it. Results: Among the participants, 45.4% were normotensive, 43.2% had Stage I hypertension, and 11.3% had Stage II hypertension. The prevalence of hypertension was notably higher among those with higher body mass indices (BMI): 70% in the obese category, 56% in the overweight category, and 41.8% in the normal BMI group. Regarding awareness, 85% of the participants had good knowledge about hypertension, and 78% were aware of lifestyle measures to manage it. However, only 60% reported implementing these measures in their daily lives. Conclusion: The study uncovered a high prevalence of hypertension among medical professionals. While awareness about hypertension and lifestyle measures is relatively high, actual implementation is suboptimal. Addressing BMI and promoting the adoption of lifestyle modifications could help mitigate the impact of hypertension within this group.

High Blood Pressure among Young Adults Aged 18 - 45 Years Presenting for Care to a Health Center in Karongi District in Rwanda

Hypertension is a major global health challenge, significantly contributing to morbidity and mortality. This study investigates the prevalence and associated risk factors of hypertension among young adults aged 18 – 45 years in Karongi District, Rwanda, to inform effective prevention and management strategies. Hypertension prevalence serves as a critical measure of community health, with further epidemiological data needed to address treatment gaps, elevated prevalence rates, and suboptimal blood pressure control. The study also aims to promote routine blood pressure monitoring and highlight the efficacy of lifestyle interventions, including reduced salt intake, regular physical activity, weight loss, alcohol moderation, and smoking cessation, in managing hypertension. A cross-sectional analytical design was employed, utilizing patient questionnaires and observation checklists at Rubengera Health Center. Data analysis was conducted using STATA version 15, with logistic regression identifying factors influencing hypertension. The study found an overall hypertension prevalence of 30.3%, with 9.09% representing newly diagnosed cases, consistent with trends in African populations. Significant sociodemographic factors included older age, lower education levels, urban residence, and marital status, with higher prevalence among married and widowed individuals. Key lifestyle contributors were high saturated fat intake, low physical activity, and excessive salt consumption, while regular exercise and a balanced diet were protective factors. The study concludes that hypertension is a prevalent health issue among young adults in Karongi District, driven by both sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. It underscores the need for data-driven strategies for hypertension management and control, providing essential insights for health planners in estimating disease burden and designing targeted interventions. Recommendations include public awareness campaigns, early detection initiatives, and policy measures addressing unhealthy dietary habits and physical inactivity. Further research is encouraged to examine the impact of occupation, gender, marital transitions, and intervention efficacy in reducing hypertension prevalence. These efforts aim to mitigate the burden of hypertension in Rwanda, contributing to improved health outcomes and population well-being. Keywords: Hypertension, Prevalence, Risk factors, Lifestyle interventions, Sociodemographic factors, Management strategies

Relationship Between Waist Circumference, Smoking, and Physical Activity with Hypertension at Lenek Community Health Center

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), including hypertension, are a major problem and cause of premature death in developing countries. Data on hypertension in NTB is 282,970 with the most sufferers in East Lombok Regency. Non-modifiable hypertension risk factors include age, gender, and heredity, as well as modifiable risks include smoking, alcohol use, obesity, nutrition, and physical activity. The purpose of this study at the Lenek Health Center is to evaluate the link between waist circumference, smoking, and physical activity with hypertension. This study employs a cross-sectional approach and is observational quantitative analytical in nature. Purposive sampling is done using the Slovin formula. This study's sample size was 106 samples. The data was examined using the chi-square test. The findings revealed 106 respondents, the majority of whom had hypertension (74 people, 69.8%), while 32 people (30.2%) did not have hypertension. There is a substantial correlation between waist circumference and hypertension (p = 0.001). Smoking is significantly associated with hypertension (p=0.001). There is a strong link between physical activity and hypertension (p=0.001). The conclusion is that waist circumference, smoking, and physical activity all influence the prevalence of hypertension at the Lenek Health Center.

Prevalence of pulmonary hypertension and associated factors among rheumatic heart disease patients in Ethiopia

BackgroundIn developing countries evidences regarding pulmonary hypertension (PH) in rheumatic heart disease (RHD) patients are lacking, despite being responsible for significant morbidity and mortality. As a result, identifying the factors that influence PH is crucial to improve the quality of care.ObjectiveTo determine prevalence of pulmonary hypertension and its associated factors among rheumatic heart disease patients at the public hospitals of Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia.MethodsAn institution based prospective cross-sectional study was conducted among RHD patients who had follow up at the two public hospitals of Bahir Dar city from January 2022 to December 2023. It involved 310 patients selected by systematic random sampling technique. Pretested, structured, and interviewer-administered questionnaires were used to collect sociodemographic and diseases related parameters.Transthoracic echocardiography by cardiologist was used to assess PH. Data were entered using Epidata Manager version 4.6 and analyzed using SPSS version 27. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify determinants of PH, considering with a p-value of < 0.05 as statically significant, with a 95% confidence interval.ResultsThe mean systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (sPAP) of the participants was 50.2 mmHg [SD ± 25.0 mmHg]. The prevalence of PH among RHD patients was 56.5% (95% CI 50.9 – 61.9) from which 51.4% had severe PH. Severe mitral valve stenosis (AOR 7.8, 95% CI 2.4–25.7), duration of illness ≥ 3 years (AOR 7.7, 95% CI 2.1–28.5), and diuretics use (AOR 5.6, 95% CI 2.2–14.3) were factors associated with PH. In contrast, valvular intervention (AOR 0.06, 95% CI 0.01–0.29) and LVEF ≥ 50% (AOR 0.14, 95% CI 0.02–0.81) were found to be protective factors.ConclusionsThe prevalence of PH among RHD patients in Ethiopia is high and it’s associated with delayed presentation & complications. Special attention should be paid to early surgical or percutaneous valvular intervention for those who have indication, before they develop permanent cardiac remodeling and LVFE become reduced. As a result, access to valvular intervention need to be addressed to improve PH related morbidity & mortality among RHD patients in Ethiopia.

Comparative application of MAFLD and MASLD diagnostic criteria on NAFLD patients: insights from a single-center cohort

The diagnostic criteria for Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) and Metabolic Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) aim to refine the classification of fatty liver diseases previously grouped under Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). This study evaluates the applicability of the MAFLD and MASLD frameworks in NAFLD patients, exploring their clinical utility in identifying high-risk patients. A total of 369 NAFLD patients were assessed using MAFLD and MASLD diagnostic criteria. Baseline characteristics, metabolic profiles, hepatic fibrosis, and cardiovascular risks were compared across the groups. Among NAFLD patients, 97.55% (n = 359) met MASLD criteria, and 97.01% (n = 357) fulfilled MAFLD criteria. Both frameworks MAFLD and MASLD captured overlapping populations, with MASLD encompassing slightly more cases. No significant differences were observed in metabolic risk factors, fibrosis indices (APRI, FIB-4, NAFLD fibrosis score), or cardiovascular risk (10-year ASCVD score). A small subset of lean NAFLD patients (10 cases) with distinct profiles remained uncategorized by either framework. Pure NAFLD cases (n = 10) were with mild insulin resistance (HOMA-IR: 3.07 ± 0.33) and slightly elevated LDL (102.5 ± 42.87 mg/dL), while fibrosis indices indicated low fibrosis risk. Steatosis indices supported the diagnosis of early-stage NAFLD with preserved liver function. These patients do not meet the criteria for inclusion in the MAFLD or MASLD frameworks, highlighting a gap in the current diagnostic systems. MAFLD and MASLD criteria align closely with NAFLD in capturing patients with metabolic risk with MASLD-enhanced inclusivity. Further refinement is required to address heterogeneity, particularly in lean NAFLD patients. Hypertension prevalence was comparable (17.4% in NAFLD, 18.2% in MAFLD, 17.8% in MASLD; p = 0.960), as was diabetes mellitus (36.7%, 37.8%, and 37.6%, respectively; p = 0.945). Body mass index was also similar across groups, with medians of 33.25, 33.6, and 33.4 kg/m2 (p = 0.731). Non-invasive markers of hepatic fibrosis, including APRI, FIB-4, and NAFLD fibrosis scores, did not differ significantly, with median FIB-4 scores around 1.05 (p = 0.953). Similarly, were the results of hepatic steatosis index and ASCVD score.

Pre- and post-pandemic comparisons in cardiovascular markers: a population-based study

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic, starting in 2020, raised concerns about potential long-term health impacts, including its effects on cardiovascular health and related biomarkers. This study part of the Bus Santé in Geneva, Switzerland, compared cardiovascular and metabolic profiles pre- (2016–2019) and post-pandemic (2023–2024) among individuals aged 30–75.MethodsParticipants completed questionnaires and underwent a clinical visit, including a physical examination and fasting blood test to assess lipid and glycemic profiles. Linear regression was used to estimate results including mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure, cholesterol, and glycemic profiles, after adjusting for age, sex, smoking, and socioeconomic status. Quantile regression models were used to estimate median values.ResultsA total of 4,558 participants were included. The study observed modest declines in mean glucose, cholesterol, HDL, and LDL levels post-pandemic, with stable blood pressure. The prevalence and treatment rates of diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia remained consistent. Unawareness of these conditions was stable.ConclusionDespite initial fears of a pandemic-induced health debt, results indicate healthy cardiovascular profiles post-pandemic, likely driven by improved lifestyle behaviors. This study highlights the importance of monitoring of cardiovascular health and suggests that lifestyle improvements may offset potential adverse pandemic effects in developed nations like Switzerland.

Prevalence of and Factors Associated with Hypertension Among Bank Employees: A Cross-Sectional Study in Saudi Arabia

Background and Objectives: Hypertension (HTN) is one of the most common non-communicable medical conditions and the leading preventable risk factor for early mortality worldwide. As a result of their exposure to sedentary work and job strain, bank employees comprise an occupational group at risk for HTN. Due to the lack of previous research addressing this issue in Saudi Arabia, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of HTN and its associated factors among bankers in the Qassim region, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 342 bank employees. A self-administered questionnaire in the workplace was used to collect data on the sociodemographic characteristics and risk factors of participants, including smoking, physical activity, family history of HTN, and diabetes mellitus. Each participant’s blood pressure, height, and weight were measured. Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale was used to assess stress levels. Results: The prevalence of HTN in the participants was 28.9%. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that being a smoker (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.82, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–3.25), diabetic (aOR = 5.14, 95% CI: 1.60–16.54), or obese (aOR = 5.49, 95% CI: 2.75–10.96); having a positive family history of HTN (aOR = 2.48, 95% CI: 1.36–4.51); and having a very high stress score (≥21; aOR = 3.24, 95% CI: 1.04–10.11) were associated with an increased risk of HTN, while walking for 10 min continuously ≥7 times/week (aOR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.12–0.64) was associated with a decreased risk of HTN. Conclusions: The findings revealed that almost one out of three bank employees had HTN. Periodic screening for early detection of HTN, as well as implementing health education and lifestyle modification programs, is recommended.

Cardiovascular Anesthesia and Critical Care in the French West Indies: Historical Evolution and Current Prospects

Anesthesiology, the medical specialty that deals with the management of vital functions in patients undergoing surgery, has played an important role in the successful development of cardiac interventions worldwide. Tracing the historical roots of cardiac anesthesia and critical care from its inception in the late 1950s, a paradigm shift in perioperative care has been driven by a better understanding of the mechanisms of organ dysfunction in stressful conditions and technological advances regarding surgical approach, patient monitoring, and organ protection. Although progress in cardiac anesthesia and critical care lagged a little behind in Caribbean territories, successful achievements have been accomplished over the last forty years. Compared with Western countries, the greater prevalence of obesity, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension as well as specific diseases such as cardiac amyloidosis, sickle cell anemia, rheumatic heart disease, and tropical infections may reduce a patient’s physiologic reserve and increase the operative risk among the multi-ethnic population living in the French West Indies and Guiana. So far, cardiac anesthesiologists at the University Hospital of Martinique have demonstrated their abilities in implementing evidence-based clinical care processes and adaptating to efficiently working in a complex environment interacting with multiple partners. Attracting specialized physicians in dedicated cardiac surgical centers and the creation of a regional health network supported by governmental authorities, insurance companies, and charitable organizations are necessary to solve the unmet needs for invasive cardiac treatments in the Caribbean region.

REM obstructive sleep apnea: prevalence and clinical associations in a high-altitude population.

REM-associated OSA (REM OSA) has a prevalence of 17-74% of all OSA cases. At high altitude and in Latin America, there are no data on REM OSA and its relationship to daytime sleepiness and comorbidities. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of REM OSA and the differences in clinical and polysomnographic characteristics between OSA and REM OSA in a population living at 2640 m. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on adults in Bogotá, Colombia between January and December 2022. Patients were considered to have REM- OSA if they had a REM sleep duration of at least 30 minutes and the ratio of REM-AHI to NREM-AHI was > 2, and NREM-AHI < 15. For comparing the OSA and OSA REM groups, the X2 or Fisher's exact test was used for the qualitative variables and Student's t-test or its non-parametric counterpart for the quantitative variables. Patients with REM OSA and mild OSA had more severe nocturnal desaturation indices compared to mild NREM OSA. Patients with OSA had a higher prevalence of arterial hypertension and ischemic heart disease. REM OSA prevalence in a population living at high altitude was low compared with other studies. The patients with REM OSA and mild OSA had more severe nocturnal desaturation indexes compared to REM OSA at sea level. This study suggests a possible subgroup of patients with mild OSA at high altitude who may benefit from a discussion about initiating CPAP therapy.

Does ongoing inflammation in recovered COVID-19 pneumonia cases aggravate underlying hypertension or unmasks new onset hypertension? A single center experience of 800 cases

&lt;b&gt;Introduction:&lt;/b&gt; New onset hypertension and aggravation of hypertension during the post-COVID-19 period are issues of concern having very limited data published on them. Hence, the current study was conducted with the aim of studying the blood pressure profiles as new onset hypertension, pre-existent hypertension and an aggravation of pre-existent hypertension in post-COVID-19 patients.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;Methods:&lt;/b&gt; Retrospective cohort study conducted between October 2021 to March 2022, included 800 post-COVID-19 patients above 18 years of age treated at the dedicated COVID-19 care center irrespective of their disease severity and comorbidity after a valid written consent. All the study cases were followed after six months of discharge from hospital. Protocolled recording of covariates such as blood pressure, anthropometric indices, ECG, blood sugar, lipid profile and uric acid were done at entry point. Retrospective data collection of indoor records was done such CT severity assessment as mild (score &amp;lt; 8), moderate (score 9-15) and severe (score &amp;gt; 15); inflammatory markers IL-6, Ferritin, CRP, LDH and D-dimer, interventions used during hospitalization such as oxygen supplementation and oxygen plus BIPAP/NIV. Statistical analysis was done by using a Chi-square test.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; In study of 800 post-COVID-19 cases, pre-existent hypertension in 10% (80/800), new onset hypertension in 8.5% (68/800), aggravation of pre-existent hypertension in 47.5% (38/80) cases. Significant association was observed between interventions used as hypertension profile such as cases with oxygen requirement new onset HTN 32/68 (47.05%), pre-existent hypertension in 10/42 (23.80%), aggravation of pre-existent hypertension in 16/38 (42.10%) and oxygen plus BIPAP/NIV requirement in new onset HTN 27/68 (39.70%), pre-existent hypertension in 10/42 (23.80%), aggravation of pre-existent hypertension in 16/38 (42.10%) cases (p &amp;lt; 0.0001). Significant association was observed in blood pressure switch during pre-COVID-19 to post-COVID-19 state during follow up from normotensive to hypertensive range (p &amp;lt; 0.00001). Comorbidities such as DM, hyperlipidemia and IHD showed significant association with blood pressure profile in study cases in post-COVID-19 setting (p &amp;lt; 0.00001). Inflammatory markers during hospitalization (IL-6, CRP, LDH, ferritin, and D-dimer) and uric acid analysis during follow-up documented significant association with new onset HTN, pre-existent hypertension, aggravation of pre-existent hypertension and no hypertension or normal blood pressure cases during post-COVID-19 follow-up (p &amp;lt; 0.00001).&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/b&gt; COVID-19 infection is probably a risk factor for new onset hypertension and increased prevalence of hypertension was observed in the post-COVID-19 period and considered as unmasking effect on hypertension. Additionally, disease related inflammatory burden, stress and anxiety are associated with aggravation of hypertension in pre-existent cases.

Untreated and uncontrolled hypertension in Japanese patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage.

Hypertension (HT) is the most attributable and modifiable risk factor for spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (SICH). However, epidemiological data on blood pressure (BP) control before SICH and its relationship to patient lifestyles are lacking. This study prospectively enrolled patients with acute SICH from six stroke centers in Tochigi, Japan. BP control and patient lifestyles were investigated using a questionnaire conducted on patients and their families. A total of 365 patients were analyzed, 270 (74.0%) of whom had HT and 198 (54.2%) untreated HT. The prevalence of untreated HT was much higher in younger patients and decreased with age (79.0%, 71.8%, 62.2%, 44.8%, and 31.0% in those aged <50, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, and ≥80 years, respectively). Patients with untreated HT were significantly less likely have a family doctor and attended fewer annual health checkups than did those with treated or no HT. Untreated HT with awareness was much higher in younger and middle-age men than in women, whereas untreated HT without awareness was much higher in younger women than in men. Among patients who received antihypertensives, the prevalence of well-controlled HT was also very low, especially in younger patients (20.0% and 23.5% in those aged <50, and 50-59 years, respectively). In-hospital mortality was much higher in younger patients (age <70 years) with untreated than with treated or no HT. Untreated and uncontrolled HT were highly detected and seemed to be important targets for the primary prevention of Japanese SICH. Different strategies to improve BP control are warranted for each generation and sex.

Representation of Women in Atrial Fibrillation Ablation Randomized Controlled Trials: Systematic Review.

Sex inequality in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) related to cardiovascular disease has been observed. This study examined the proportion of women enrolled in atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation RCTs and the potential risks of underrepresentation of women. We systematically searched PubMed and Embase for AF ablation RCTs published from 2015 to 2022. Participant characteristics were compared among trials with higher and lower proportions of women. Of 147 AF ablation RCTs (30,055 participants), only 10 trials had enrolled women ≥50% of the total participants. Additionally, 42 trials (28.57%) excluded pregnant/breastfeeding women; 6 (4.1%) excluded reproductive-age women without reliable birth control. The proportion of women in AF RCTs ranged from 9% to 71% (median 31.5%), whereas the median proportion of men was 67.7%. The rate of women included in the trials was stable from 2015 to 2022 (P=0.49). Study characteristics, including funding source, showed no correlation with the rate of inclusion of women. RCTs with a higher proportion of female participants enrolled older patients with AF, had a higher prevalence of hypertension but less persistent AF, and smaller left atrium size (P<0.05 for all). Biological sex was evaluated as a risk factor or in a subgroup analysis in 28 RCTs; 10.7% of these trials observed the implication of sex on their results. Women were underrepresented in contemporary AF ablation RCTs. Additionally, women enrolled in AF RCTs were likely to have more comorbidities but less advanced AF, limiting the applicability of the results to women with AF.

Increase in comorbidities with age among patients with psoriatic arthritis: a multicenter observational study.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) significantly contributes to increased morbidity, reduced life expectancy, and higher healthcare costs due to the burden of comorbidities. This study assessed the prevalence of comorbidities in PsA patients in India and explored the influence of age and disease duration on these comorbidities. The prospective, multicenter observational study was conducted across seven centers in India, utilizing data from the Indian Rheumatology Association. Data were collected using expert-validated proformas, with comorbidities classified according to the ICD-10 Charlson Comorbidity Index. Participants were divided into two age groups: <40 years and ≥ 40 years. The study included 533 participants (median age: 50 years, range: 17-81). Comorbidities were more common among older patients (median age: 54 years, range: 41-79). About 38% had at least one comorbidity, with hypertension (17.07%) and diabetes (15.19%) being most prevalent, followed by thyroid disorders (10.13%) and hyperlipidemia (3.94%). Comorbidities were significantly more common in patients ≥ 40 years (45.04%) compared to those < 40 years (18.57%) (P < 0.001). The older group also had higher rates of hyperlipidemia (4.83% vs. 0.71%, P = 0.035) and hypertension (22.14%). Logistic regression revealed a significant association between age and the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and thyroid disorders (P = 0.003). Among patients over 40, 44.27% had at least one comorbidity. The study underscores the significant association between age and the prevalence of comorbidities in PsA patients, particularly in those over 40 years. These findings highlight the importance of targeted screening and management in older PsA patients.

The burden of irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia in Poland: a cross-sectional study from West Pomeranian Voivodship

BackgroundFunctional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), now known as disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs), such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Functional Dyspepsia (FD), significantly impact global health, reducing quality of life and burdening healthcare systems. This study addresses the epidemiological gap in Poland, focusing on the West Pomeranian Voivodeship.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study of 2070 Caucasian patients (58.2% female, mean age 57.5 ± 15.1 years) undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopic examinations at Pomeranian Medical University from 2021 to 2023. Data were collected using Rome IV diagnostic questionnaires and correlated with gastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy findings. Exclusion criteria were age under 18, pregnancy, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, severe comorbidities, cancer, immunosuppressive therapy, ileostomy/colostomy, incomplete questionnaires, or lack of consent.ResultsUsing Rome IV criteria, IBS was diagnosed in 436 participants (21.1%) and FD in 248 participants (12.0%). Post-endoscopic evaluation revised FD diagnoses to 184 individuals (8.9%). Females had a higher prevalence of IBS and FD (OR 1.64 and 1.61, respectively). No significant association was found between higher BMI and increased risk of IBS and FD. Hypertension and diabetes prevalence were 35.1% and 13.0%, respectively. Individuals with a history of COVID-19 had a higher risk of developing IBS (OR 1.47, P = 0.050).ConclusionsOur study provides crucial epidemiological data on IBS and FD in Poland, emphasizing the importance of endoscopic evaluations. Our findings highlight the need for regional studies to understand local DGBI prevalence, aiding targeted healthcare strategies.Graphical

Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Hypertension Among Middle-Aged and Older Tribal Adults-Evidence from Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI).

Hypertension is a global health concern, particularly among middle-aged and older adults. This study aims to fill this gap by examining hypertension prevalence and risk factors using data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI). This study used data from the LASI, which is a nationally representative Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI), wave-1 (2017-2018). Our study included a sample of 12,920 individuals from tribal communities who were aged 45 and above. A binary logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the factors associated with hypertension in middle-aged and elderly tribal adults using STATA software. The study revealed that the prevalence of hypertension among middle-aged and older tribal adults was 34.35%, with 31.97% among males and 36.29% among females. The prevalence of hypertension among middle-aged tribal adults was observed to be 28.67%, while among older tribal adults, it was found to be 46.13%. Age is a prominent factor, showing a marked increase in hypertension risk with advancing age. Individuals aged 51-55 have a cOR of 1.35 (1.03-1.75) and an aOR of 1.37 (1.01-1.86). Gender analysis reveals that females exhibit a higher crude risk with a cOR of 1.21 (1.02-1.42). Hypertension is associated to factors such as increasing age, BMI, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and diabetes. Sociodemographic factors like education and socioeconomic status also contribute to the prevalence of hypertension. Targeted public health interventions, including lifestyle modifications, early diagnosis, and management, particularly in tribal communities, can significantly reduce hypertension prevalence and impact. Culturally tailored health promotion programs could further address these risk factors.

Prevalence of Hypertension and Associated Risk Factors among Post-Menopausal Women of Boalkhali Upazila of Chattogram District: Cross Sectional Observational Study

Prevalence of Hypertension and Associated Risk Factors among Post-Menopausal Women of Boalkhali Upazila of Chattogram District: Cross Sectional Observational Study