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Hypertension Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors in a South African Population
Hannah Fokkens1,2, Jyoti R Sharma1,2, Ria Laubscher3
1Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform, The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), Cape Town 7501, South Africa.
Summary
Hypertension affects over half of adults in this South African community, with risk factors including age, obesity, and socioeconomic status. Targeted health initiatives are crucial for prevention and management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Hypertension is a significant global risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
- Addressing hypertension prevalence and risk factors is a critical public health concern, particularly in diverse communities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of hypertension in a South African community.
- To identify key anthropometric, socioeconomic, and lifestyle-related risk factors associated with hypertension in the study population.
Main Methods:
- An observational study was conducted between 2019 and 2023 with 1029 participants.
- Hypertension prevalence was determined using South African Hypertension Society guidelines.
- Risk factors were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of hypertension was 53.6% in the study population (mean age 48 years, 81.1% female).
- Significant risk factors identified include advanced age, diabetes, higher body mass index (48.7% obese), lower educational attainment, unemployment, sedentary lifestyle, and rural residence.
- Mean blood pressure was 128/82.5 mmHg.
Conclusions:
- This study reveals a high prevalence of hypertension in the studied South African community.
- Identified risk factors align with existing literature, emphasizing the need for targeted health education and lifestyle interventions.
- Policy initiatives should prioritize improving healthcare access and addressing socioeconomic determinants to mitigate hypertension's impact, especially in rural areas.
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