Risk Factors of Hypertension at UNRWA Primary Health Care Centers in Gaza Governorates

Universally, hypertension is a major public health problem. Identification of risk factors for hypertension supports intervention policies to minimize the disease morbidity and mortality. The main objective is to fill a gap in research literature by establishing baseline information for hypertension risk factors among Palestinians. Methods. A case control study was conducted at UNRWA health care services in Gaza Strip. A proportional systematic random sample of 120 cases matched with sex, and locality to 120 controls were chosen. Data was collected using a questionnaire which included socio-demographic data, lifestyle, and health profile. Collected data was analyzed using SPSS V13. Results. The most common modifiable risk factors of hypertension were physical inactivity (76.7% versus 15.9%), obesity (67.5% versus 29.2%), diabetes mellitus (19.2% versus 7.5%), and ex-smoking (15.5% versus 1%). Cases and controls show statistical significant differences in values for the lipid profile. Hypertension was significantly associated with low socio economic status, education, and employment. The most common non-modifiable risk factors were age, and family history (85.8% versus 71.7%). Multiple logistic analysis controlling for age showed that significant predictors of hypertension were obesity, physical inactivity, low monthly income and family history. Conclusion. Most of the identified hypertension risk factors are preventable.