Casual blood pressure in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Both dietary and lifestyle changes, as well as  pharmaceuticals, can improve blood pressure control and decrease the
risk of poor outcome. Casual blood pressure measurement is necessary in poor resource countries like Nigeria because of lack of enough health facilities and personnel.
Method: This is a cross sectional study at the Sharks' Football Stadium, Port Harcourt, Nigeria, conducted in 2008. Blood pressures of subjects were measured using a mercury sphygmomanometer during a  self-empowerment exhibition.
Results: One hundred and fourteen (114) subjects' participated in the study. The mean age of subjects was 38.90+0.52 years. Known hypertensives were 7 made of 3 females and 4 males. Three of the known hypertensives had elevated blood pressure.

Conclusion: Casual blood pressure measurement is necessary for early detection of hypertension especially in low resource areas where people do not readily have access to health facilities because of poverty. The high prevalence rates of non-communicable diseases, particularly hypertension, in developing countries is giving much concern.

Key Words: Casual, Blood Pressure, Hypertension, Subjects