[Profile of patients seen at an outpatient hypertension facility: are there gender differences?]

Insights

This study found no significant gender differences in hypertension risk factors among Brazilian adults, except for higher alcohol consumption in men. These findings highlight the need for tailored interventions in hypertension management.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Hypertension is a significant cardiovascular risk factor.
  • Understanding gender differences in hypertension risk factors is crucial for effective public health strategies.
  • Outpatient hypertension facilities manage a diverse patient population.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate gender disparities in socio-demographic characteristics and hypertension risk factors.
  • To analyze data from adults monitored in a Brazilian outpatient hypertension clinic.
  • To identify specific risk factors associated with hypertension in different genders.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 209 patient records from 2009-2010.
  • Inclusion of socio-demographic data, anthropometric measurements, and hypertension risk factors.
  • Statistical analysis with a significance level of p < 0.05.

Main Results:

  • The study population comprised 66% female patients, predominantly married (65.9%) and white (71.6%), with a mean age of 53.5 years.
  • Sedentary behavior was prevalent (70.1%).
  • Men exhibited higher waist circumference and alcohol consumption (p = 0.04) compared to women.

Conclusions:

  • No significant gender differences were observed in most assessed socio-demographic and hypertension-related variables.
  • Alcohol consumption emerged as the primary exception, with higher rates among men.
  • Findings suggest a need for gender-specific considerations in hypertension management, particularly regarding alcohol use.

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