Hypertension in Asir region, southwestern Saudi Arabia: an epidemiologic study

A population study was carried out to determine the prevalence of hypertension among Saudis at primary health care level in the Asir region, Southwestern Saudi Arabia. All primary health care centers (PHCCs) were visited (238 PHCCs). Data were collected in relation to the updated Saudi population census for 1991. Chronic case registries were revised to identify existing cases of hypertension by age and sex till the end of 1991. Results showed that the prevalence of hypertension amounted to 2.4% among Saudis aged 45 years and more. Males and females aged 45 years and more living at high altitude had a significantly higher risk of developing hypertension (p < 0.05) compared to those living at sea level.