Risk factors for hypertension: results from a cross-sectional survey

A case-control study of hypertension was conducted, using as a sampling frame a cross-sectional survey of Canadian Federal civil servants. Three case groups were selected, based on prior knowledge of hypertensive status and measured blood pressure. A 3-to-1 matching scheme was employed. Data was analysed using a logistic regression model. Statistically significantly elevated odds ratios, in excess of 3.0, were noted for overweight or obese status. Other odds ratios associated with a significantly increased risk of hypertension were maternal and paternal history of hypertension and current cigarette smoking.