A Cross Sectional Study to Know the Prevalence of Hypertension among Rural Adults

Abstract

Background and objectives ABSTRACT Most of the developing countries including India are undergoing epidemiological transition. Complications of hypertension are some of the leading causes of mortality in low- and middle-income countries. Many studies showed an increasing trend in the prevalence and also the risk factors associated with hypertension in India. Hence the present study, to know the prevalence of hypertension among rural adults aged between 30 years to 60 years and to determine the risk factors associated with hypertension. Methodology A cross sectional study, conducted from January 2010 to December 2010 among all rural adults aged between 30 years to 60 years residing in subcentre Agasaga, under PHC, Handignur, Belgaum. Total 1472 participants were included in study. After written informed consent, data regarding socio demographic variables, personal information such as diet history, habits, exercise and family history of hypertension were collected. Anthropometric measurements, general physical examination and systemic examination were carried out. ECG, fundoscopy and urine examination for protein were carried out among hypertensives. Statistical analysis was done using chi square test and regression analysis. P value less than 0.05 was considered significant. VIII Results Prevalence of hypertension was 27.7%. 30.8% in men and 24.3% in women. Prevalence of hypertension increased as age advanced in both males and females. Hypertension was associated with sedentary service (41.5%), high literacy status (42.9%), consumption of extra salt (59.8%) and extra fat (61.1%), smoking (47.2%), consuming smokeless tobacco (36.7%), alcohol (40.4%), family history of hypertension (51.7%) and obesity (61.8%). Among hypertensives 65.7% were diagnosed during survey and among known cases of hypertension 88.6% were on treatment. Cardiac involvement was 36.3% among hypertensives, 38.7% had retinal involvement and 6.4% showed presence of albumin in urine. Conclusion and interpretation Prevalence of hypertension was 27.7%. Modifiable risk factors were physical inactivity, extra salt and fat consumption, tobacco and alcohol consumption. Among hypertensives majority were diagnosed during survey (61.8%). Among known hypertensives only half were taking regular treatment. Cardiac involvement was present in 36.3% and retinal involvement in 38.7%.