Prevalence and risk factors of hypertension, among adults residing in an urban area of North India

Background: The increasing prevalence and severity of hypertens ion with age has acquired the status of an epidemic with long incubation period. It has been associated with various risk factors such as alcoholism, smoking, stress and obesity, wh ich has also started to affect the young population due to modern lifestyle changes. Objectives: To study the prevalence of hypertension and its ri sk factors among adults aged 20 years and above residing in an urban area. Methodology: A cross ‐ sectional study was done among adults ag ed 20 years and above with detailed history and physical examination to evalua te various risk factors associated with hypertension. Results: Out of 957 participants, 53.5% were males, 46.5% we re females. Majority (33.9%) of participants were aged 20 ‐ 29 years and 28.4% had a positive family history of hypertension. Overall prevalence of hypertension was 14.4%. 9.5 % had hypertension stage ‐ 1, 4.9% had hypertension stage ‐ 2, and 11.1% had blood pressur e in pre-hypertension range. Hypertension was also more prevalent in the Upper class (27.7%). Amo ng the participants 33.9% were in the habit of consumption of alcohol, tobacco or both. 14.5 % wer e having mild to moderate self perceived stress. Conclusion: Prevalence of hypertension was more in males compar ed to females because men have more associated risk factors like smoking, alcohol and stress. Hypertensive should be advised for regular health checkups, dietary modifications and life style changes. Regular screening and health education camp and strengthening of health care ser vices are essential for early diagnosis.