Clinical and Laboratory Profile of Prehypertension in Adults – A One Year Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background and objectives This is era of pandemic of prehypertension. Prehypertension is defined as BP in the range of 120 to 139 mm Hg ( in systole ) or 80 to 89 mmHg ( in diastole ) . It is associated with many risk factors such as sympathetic overactivity, abnormal lipid profile, obesity and diabetes. Prevention of prehypertension is important goal for primary care patients. Objectives of present study were to evaluate clinical and laboratory profile of prehypertensives. Methodology Present one year cross sectional study was conducted in Department of Medicine, KLES Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Belgaum on 100 patients with prehypertension during period of January 2009 to December 2009. Demographic data with relevant history was collected and thorough clinical examination was conducted. Three BP readings, five minutes apart were taken and mean of second and third reading was selected as final blood pressure. Special tests such as renal function tests, Lipid Profile, Tread Mill Test and fundoscopy were conducted and recorded. Results Majority of study participants were males ( 83% ) and aged between 41 to 50 years ( 39% ) followed by 51 to 60 years ( 33% ) . Majority ( 61% ) patients were overweight and obese, with overall mean basal heart rate of 82.50±10.37 beats/min and 28% were diabetics. Angiographic CAD probability calculated by simple exercise test score showed majority ( 61% ) having; intermediate ( 46% ) V and high ( 15% ) probability. TMT was positive for inducible ischaemia in 13% subjects. Hypertensive BP response was seen in 16% subjects. Heart rate recovery time, marker of autonomic dysfunction was blunted in 5% of prehypertensives. Conclusion Age, smoking, family history, prediabetes and diabetes are important risk factors for prehypertension. Obesity, dyslipidemia and basal heart rate of more than 80 beats/min formed an important risk factors, as well as determinants of prehypertesion. Prehypertensives are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease and progression to hypertension.