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Hypertension in the coloured population of the Cape Peninsula
Insights
Hypertension prevalence is high in South African adults, with many unaware of their condition. Lifestyle factors like diet and alcohol significantly impact blood pressure levels.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Hypertension is a major global health concern.
- Understanding its prevalence and risk factors in diverse populations is crucial for effective public health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of hypertension in a South African population.
- To identify associated risk factors and awareness levels of the condition.
Main Methods:
- A random sample of 976 individuals was surveyed.
- Data collected included blood pressure measurements, lifestyle factors, and demographic information.
Main Results:
- 17.2% of men and 18.4% of women were hypertensive (≥160/95 mmHg or on medication).
- Total hypertension (≥140/90 mmHg) affected 35.6% of men and 24.7% of women.
- Awareness and treatment of hypertension were low, with only 42.2% of men and 69.9% of women aware.
- Hypertension was associated with lower intakes of potassium, calcium, magnesium, saturated fat, higher alcohol consumption, smoking, and elevated cholesterol and uric acid levels.
Conclusions:
- Significant hypertension burden exists in this South African population, with low awareness and treatment rates.
- Dietary factors, alcohol, smoking, and metabolic markers are key associated factors.
- Further research into ethnic group differences is warranted.
Abstract:
In a random sample of 976 coloured people 17.2% of men and 18.4% of women were hypertensive (greater than or equal to 160/95 mmHg or receiving medication). In the same population 35.6% of men and 24.7% of women suffered from total hypertension (greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg). Men between 25 and 44 years had a markedly higher prevalence of hypertension than women of the same age. Above this age the situation was reversed. Correcting for under- and over-cuffing increased the mean pressures in men and decreased them in older women. Only 42.2% of hypertensive men and 69.9% of women were aware of their condition. Only 41.3% were on medication for it and a mere 16% had blood pressures below 160/95 mmHg. Hypertensives had significantly lower intakes of potassium, calcium, magnesium and saturated fat than normotensive subjects. Young hypertensives consumed more salt than older hypertensives. Both systolic and diastolic blood pressures were positively associated with alcohol consumption, smoking (in men), total serum cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, non-fasting triglyceride and uric acid levels. Hypertensive subjects were less educated and showed more type A coronary-prone behaviour than normotensives. A comparison of the prevalence of hypertension in the four South African ethnic groups is given.