Hypertension and its association with anthropometric indices among Nigerian adolescents

Abstract

Background
Hypertension has become increasingly common among adolescents such that it poses a significant health concern. To develop effective prevention and management strategies, it is essential to understand the association between hypertension and various factors. This study therefore sought to investigate the prevalence of hypertension and its association with anthropometric indices among Nigerian adolescents.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among Nigerian adolescents aged 10-19 years in 2022, using a multi stage sampling method. Anthropometric measurements were obtained using mobile stadiometer, bathroom weighing scale, measuring tape, and personal body fat caliper while blood pressure was determined using digital blood pressure monitor. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM Statistical Product for Service Solution, version 23 and significance was accepted at p < 0.05.
Results
A total of 455 respondents (58.5% females & 41.5% males) with mean age of 14.7±2.3 years participated in the study. Their mean weight (kg), height (cm) and BMI (kg/m2) were 55.1 ± 11.5, 162.7±71.3, and 21.5±3.1, respectively. More females than males had hypertension (19.9% vs. 12.7%), whereas more males than females had pre-hypertension (19.0% vs. 17.7%). Obese adolescents had significantly (p = 0.000) higher prevalence of hypertension (18.2%) compared to pre-hypertension (1.2%). Adolescents who had abnormal triceps and sub-scapular skinfold thicknesses also had significantly (p = 0.000) higher prevalence of hypertension (11.7% vs. 7.8%) compared to pre-hypertension (4.8% vs. 3.6%) and normal blood pressure (2.4% vs. 0.3%). No significant (p > 0.05) association was observed between the waist-hip ratio and blood pressure.
Conclusion
Blood pressure showed positive correlation with anthropometric indices except for waist- hip ratio, which had no significant association with blood pressure. Regular screening for hypertension among at-risk adolescents and early initiation of treatment for affected individuals should be conducted to prevent potential complications in later life.