Identifying Risk Factors Associated with Hypertension in Different Age Groups at Sindh University Employees Housing Society Phase I Jamshoro

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is recognized as the leading cause of mortality in the 21st century. It has emerged as a significant and complex health issue, necessitating well-designed treatment strategies and healthy lifestyle habits for its prevention and management.

Objective: The objective of this study was to identify the associated risk factors of hypertension in different age groups within the Sindh University Employees Housing Society Phase I, Jamshoro.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2 to March 30, 2024, at Sindh University Employees Housing Society Phase I, Ward No. 04, Union Council 23, Block A, Jamshoro. The study involved 70 households in Block A. Data were collected using a well-structured questionnaire focusing on hypertension-related questions. Convenient sampling technique was used to select participants. A total of 52 individuals known to have hypertension, based on their medical history and self-reported criteria, participated in the study. Informed consent was obtained from each participant, and all relevant information was provided before the interview. The study adhered to ethical standards outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive statistics to summarize the demographic and lifestyle characteristics of the participants and examining associations between hypertension and various risk factors.

Results: Out of the 52 participants, 44 (84.6%) were male and 8 (15.4%) were female. Participants were categorized into four age groups: 18-27 years (13.5%), 28-37 years (9.6%), 38-47 years (38.5%), and above 48 years (38.5%). The highest prevalence of hypertension was observed in the age groups 38-47 years and above 48 years. Smoking was prevalent among participants, with 40 (76.9%) being current smokers. Physical inactivity was reported by 48 (92.3%) participants. A significant number of participants, 48 (92.3%), had a family history of hypertension. Non-compliance with hypertension treatment was observed in 35 (67.3%) participants. Additionally, 42 (80.8%) participants did not consume fruits frequently, and 44 (84.6%) were unaware that high salt intake could cause hypertension.

Conclusion: Smoking, physical inactivity, and family history were identified as the most prominent risk factors for hypertension, particularly in males aged 38 years and above. Lack of awareness regarding dietary habits, medication adherence, and sleep patterns also contributed to the development of hypertension. Targeted interventions and comprehensive health education are needed to address these modifiable risk factors and improve hypertension management in the community.