Predictors of uncontrolled hypertension among type 2 diabetic patients in Ethiopia: Multicenter cross-sectional study

Hypertension (HTN) is the commonest comorbidity among people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Uncontrolled HTN is a major risk factor for several diseases. This study aimed to determine the magnitude and predictors of uncontrolled HTN among T2DM patients.

A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted among hypertensive from September 19, 2021 to 17 December 2021. Logistic regression model was conducted to identify predictors of uncontrolled HTN. Uncontrolled BP was defined by systolic BP of ≥130 mmHg and/or diastolic BP of ≥80 mmHg.

A total of 400 study participants were included in the analysis, of which 208 (52 %) were females. The mean age of the participants was 60.6 with SD of 10.25 years. The target blood pressure achieved in 156 (39 %) of participants. Age, non-adherence to medications (OR; 2.0; 95 % CI: 1.1-3.6; P = 0.02), not reducing dietary salt (OR; 2.4; 95 % CI: 1.5-3.8; P < 0.001), uncontrolled blood sugar (OR:2.4; 95 % CI: 1.4-4.3; P = 0.002), obesity (OR; 3.2; 95 % CI:1.2-8.7; P = 0.03) and having every fourth month and above follow up (OR; 2.3; 95 % CI:1.3-4.3; P = 0.049) were significantly associated with uncontrolled blood pressure.

The target blood pressure achieved was suboptimal. Hypertensive T2DM patients who were younger, non-adherent to their medications, not reducing dietary salt, obese, with a longer frequency of follow-up, and with poor glycemic control were more likely to have uncontrolled blood pressure. Improving medication adherence, dietary salt reduction, frequent follow up and glycemic control are important to control hypertension.