Department of Community Medicine, RIMS, Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh
*Corresponding Address: Dr. K. Chandra Sekhar, NTS - F1 Quarter, RIMS Campus, RIMS, Kadapa-516002. A.P. Mobile No: +91 09849360226 cskalevaru@yahoo.com
Online published on 1 October, 2011.
Introduction
Hypertension is a chronic condition of concern due to its role in the causation of coronary heart disease, stroke and other vascular complications. It is one of the major risk factor for the cardiovascular mortality and morbidity, which accounts for 20–50 percent of all deaths.
Research question
What is the prevalence of hypertension and risk factors of Hypertension?
Objectives
1. To study the prevalence of Hypertension in an urban population of Kadapa.
2. To find the risk factors of Hypertension among adults aged 40 years & above residing in an urban area of Kadapa.
Methodology
A cross sectional community based study was conducted during the period from June 2008 to November 2008 at urban field practice area of Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Kadapa. Systematic random samples of 200 individuals were participated and house to house survey conducted and followed by blood pressure measurement done with sphygmo manometer. Hypertension diagnosis was made according to the Joint National Committee VII.
Results
Out of 200 persons screened, the prevalence of Hypertension above 40 yrs of age group was 48%. Hypertension increasing with age and statistically significant association was observed with different age groups (p<0.05). The prevalence of hypertension was more in females than in males. Statistically significant association was observed with high salt intake (>5 grams/day), Body mass index (BMI>25) and male smokers (p<0.05).
Conclusions
Prevalence of hypertension was found with many of the proven risk factors studied. Prevalence of Hypertension increases with age and distribution of Hypertension not significantly associated with and male alcoholics. Significant association was observed between Hypertension and age, high salt intake, BMI and Male smokers (P<0.05). Based on the above findings, simple life style modifications and early detection of hypertension will bring considerable change in postponement of the hypertension as well as reduction of complications in the future.
Study variables
Age, Sex, family history, intake of salt, smoking, alcohol intake and BMI.
