[Interventions associated with some risk factors for essential arterial hypertension. I. Epidemiologic observations...

The results of an epidemiological screening followed by the investigation of 9 risk factors for essential hypertension in 1218 individuals with increased values of blood pressure are presented. Stress, overweight and dietary preferences for fats and eggs had the incidence especially in, the age groups over 40 years. Both the individuals with borderline hypertension or arterial hypertension and the controls presented 2, 3 or more associated risk factors of variable intensity, the higher values being recorded in the greater than or equal to 40 years age group. When more than 3 risk factors were associated, the increases in systolic and diastolic pressures were significant. The investigation of 7 biochemical constants revealed that 50% of 190 cases with arterial hypertension presented cholesterol levels higher than 220 mg%. Increased total lipids, free fatty acids and triglycerides levels were also recorded. The results plead for multifactorial prevention programmes.