The burden of hypertension and its associated factors among adults in Ruvuma, Southern Tanzania

Abstract

Introduction: The prevalence of non-communicable diseases, and hypertension in particular, has been increasing.

Objective: To determine the prevalence and associated factors for hypertension among adults in Ruvuma, Southern Tanzania.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from September to October 2017; 802 patients were recruited, and data were collected on  demographic, behavioural and clinical characteristics, and blood pressure, which were analysed using SPSS version 24.0. Associations and statistical significance were calculated using Odds ratio at 95% CI, and p-values of <0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results: Overall, prevalence of hypertension (systolic blood pressure ≥140 and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mm Hg, or known hypertensive patient on treatment) was 20.4% (21.4% and 19.5% in women and men, respectively) and that of pre-hypertension was 35.9%. Hypertension was associated with increasing age (p=0.01), excessive salt consumption (p<0.0001), and history of hypercholesterolemia (p<0.0001).

Conclusions: The prevalence of hypertension and pre-hypertension are relatively high. Intervention measures to prevent and control the disease are mandatory to prevent its progression and reduce morbidity and mortality.

Keywords: Hypertension; pre-hypertension; associated factors; prevalence