Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hypertension and Associated Factors

Abstract

Background: Hypertension (HTN) is the most prevalent preventable risk factor that causes a significant socioeconomic burden associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and is the single most common cause of heart failure and myocardial infarction. Sub-Saharan countries, including Uganda, are still among the worst hit in terms of CVD mortality rates due to hypertension. More than 15 million global disability-adjusted life-years in sub-Saharan Africa are attributable to HTN. Method: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among Kampala International University (KIU) staff. A total of 232 KIU staff members were selected randomly from among those who consented, including medical doctors, biomedical staff, and administration staff. The questionnaire was structured into three parts: socio-demographic characteristics, habit and lifestyle, awareness, family history, comorbidities, and clinical assessment. Blood pressure (BP) measurements were performed on the left arm of respondents in a sitting position using the Omron digital BP monitor, and data were entered into Microsoft Excel and exported to SPSS for analyses. Frequencies, percentages, and binary logistic regression were used to identify the risk factors for hypertension (p values < 0.5 were entered. Results: Our findings show that high salt intake from patronized western food vendors or processed foods, high alcohol consumption, and smoking were implicated in the high prevalence of hypertension among our respondents within the 25-34years age bracket Conclusion: High salt intake from patronized western food vendors or processed foods, high alcohol consumption, and smoking may be risk factors for the onset of HTN, and engagement in physical activities among younger adults can contribute to hypertension-free lives among the respondents and frequent consumption of fruits and vegetables. It is important that awareness of salt intake, alcohol intake, and smoking be propagated, especially among younger staff, in an effort to reduce the incidence of hypertension later in life. Regular health screening of KIU staff is recommended.