RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH HYPERTENSION AMONG ADULTS RESIDING IN AN URBAN AREA OF KERALA- A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Journal Title: Journal of Evolution of Medical and Dental Sciences - Year 2017, Vol 6, Issue 90
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kerala is an Indian state, which is advanced with respect to various health indicators like infant mortality rate, maternal mortality rate, immunisation coverage, family planning acceptance etc., also social determinants like literacy, transport facilities, health awareness etc. But the state is facing the problem of a sharp increase in certain communicable diseases, especially the vector-borne diseases. The situation with regard to Non-Communicable Diseases too is a serious one in the state. Hypertension, which is well recognised as a cause for prolonged morbidity and decrease in quality of life has assumed the proportions of an important public health problem here. By this study we attempted to find out the prevalence of hypertension among adults residing in Kollam Municipal Corporation area. An exploration into the factors, which are associated with hypertension has also been done. The findings can help in identifying the pertinent aspects of high blood pressure among urban population. This information can be used in planning and implementing suitable steps in controlling hypertension in urban population. The objectives of this study are1. To find out the prevalence of hypertension among adults residing in an urban area of Kerala. 2. To determine the factors associated with hypertension in the above population. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted during the months of February and March of 2017. The study area included 4 wards in the Kollam Municipal Corporation area. The study subjects included 300 individuals above 18 years of age, residing in the study area. RESULTS The prevalence of hypertension was found to be 40% in the study area; 27% were identified as pre-hypertensives. Higher age and better educational status have significant association with hypertension (p value < .05). Also stress, comorbidities, increased BMI and waist: hip ratio, positive family history and alcohol intake were found to be significantly associated with high blood pressure (p< 0.05). CONCLUSION The prevalence of pre-hypertension is also high. Programmes focusing on weight reduction, stress relief, alcohol intake etc. and proper management of comorbidities can reduce the prevalence of hypertension.
Authors and Affiliations
Prabhakumari Chellamma, Jayasree Chandrasekharan Nair, Athira Thekke Kottarath, Ankitha Saleem, Asha Thulaseedharan Jaya, Aleesha Thaj
Keywords
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- EP ID EP278238
- DOI 10.14260/jemds/2017/1374
- Views 87
- Downloads 0
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