Hypertension and associated risk factor among individuals attending tertiary care center in Sitapur district – A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is a leading global public health issue, significantly contributing to cardiovascular disease, stroke, kidney failure, and premature death. In India, the burden of hypertension is increasing rapidly due to urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, and aging populations. Despite being preventable and manageable, hypertension often remains undiagnosed and poorly controlled, especially in rural and resource-limited settings.

Aims and Objectives: To assess the prevalence of hypertension and identify associated risk factors among the adult population in Sitapur district, Uttar Pradesh.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the screening outpatient department of the Department of Community Medicine, HIMS, Sitapur. Adults aged 19 years and above were enrolled using systematic random sampling. A total of 500 participants were included. Data were collected through a pretested, semi-structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic, behavioral, psychosocial, and clinical factors. Statistical analysis was performed using Jamovi software, with Chi-square tests for bivariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression to identify independent predictors of hypertension.

Results: A high prevalence of hypertension was seen in the age group of more than 60 years (37.8%), followed by 28.8% in the age group of 50–59 years. A high prevalence of hypertension was seen in male populations (63.5%) compared to 36.5% which was among the female population. Significant risk factors identified included older age, male sex, smoking, low physical activity, overweight/obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥25), high waist-to-hip ratio in males, and poor mental health symptoms. Participants aged >60 years had the highest odds of hypertension (adjusted odds ratios: 4.20; 95% confidence intervals: 2.10–8.30). Smoking and higher BMI levels were strongly associated with increased hypertension risk. Physical inactivity and higher socioeconomic status also emerged as significant predictors.

Conclusion: Targeted public health interventions focusing on lifestyle modification, early screening, and community awareness are essential to address the growing burden of hypertension in rural areas.