Prevalence of Hypertension and Its Associated Risk Factors Among Adults in a Low-Income Community in Pakistan

Original Article

Abstract

Background

Globally hypertension ranks among the most significant causes of cardiovascular illnesses, with an increasing occurrence in low-income groups. In these areas, major risk factors include inadequate healthcare access, unhealthy diets, and sedentary lifestyles. Understanding the occurrence and determinants of hypertension in these settings is crucial for developing effective and practical approaches to its prevention and control.

Objectives

  To determine the prevalence of hypertension and identify its associated risk factors among adults residing in a low-income community, in order to guide targeted prevention and management strategies.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 adults aged 18 years or older from a low-income community. Blood pressure measurements were obtained, and risk factors including age, gender, family history, obesity, smoking, and physical inactivity were assessed using structured interviews.

Results

Out of 400 patients, the mean age of the participants was 45.3 years (SD ± 10.2). Among the 400 adults, 40% had hypertension, with 22% having stage 1 and 18% having stage 2 hypertension. A significant association was found between hypertension and risk factors, including obesity (p < 0.05), physical inactivity (p < 0.01), and high salt intake (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This low-income community has a significantly high prevalence of hypertension, for which obesity and physical inactivity, coupled with high sodium intake, are partly the drivers. To reduce the disease burden and enhance community health, implementing effective, preventive community-based strategies focused on lifestyle changes is necessary.