Hypertension and Associated Factors among the Elderly Santals of Jangal Mahal

This cross-sectional, community-based study aimed to examine the prevalence of hypertension and associated factors amongthe 300 (J71 males and 129 females) Santal elderly population in the Jangal Mahal region (Paschim Medinipur and Jhargram district) West Bengal. An interview schedule was used to collect the demographic information. Along with anthropometric measurements (height, weight), each subject’s Blood pressure was measured using a stethoscope and sphygmomanometer. Overall, 196 (65.3%) participants were normotensive, and many other participants 104 (34.7%) were hypertensive. Females (41.9%) were more hypertensive compared to males (29.2%). Hypertension was more prevalent among overweight participants (75.0%). The nutritional status of the participants was significantly associated with hypertension (X² = 16.696*; p≤0.05). Additionally, poor sleeping habits were identified as a risk factor for hypertension. This study highlights the urgent need for health programmes and screening for hypertension to increase awareness and detect hypertension among the Santal elderly population in this region.