Epidemiologic Burden and Predictors of Hypertension, Hyperglycemia, and Their Coexistence in Semi-Urban Communities of Northcentral Nigeria: A Multi-Site Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Aim: To determine the prevalence and predictors of hypertension, hyperglycemia, and their coexistence among adults in semi-urban Northcentral Nigeria. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 6,027 adults aged ≥18 years from multiple semi-urban communities. Standardized protocols were used to obtain sociodemographic data, anthropometric indices, blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose. Prevalence estimates were age-standardized, and associations were examined using chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression. Results: The mean age was 49.0 ± 15.9 years; 75.8% were women. Hypertension, hyperglycemia, and combined conditions were present in 43.4%, 6.6%, and 3.1% of participants, respectively, with prevalence rising sharply with age, obesity, and truncal obesity but showing no sex differences. Hypertension was independently associated with age ≥50 years (OR 2.10), obesity (OR 1.80), and truncal obesity (OR 1.60). Hyperglycemia was associated with age ≥50 years (OR 1.20) and truncal obesity (OR 1.50). Combined disease was linked to age ≥50 years (OR 1.50), obesity (OR 1.60), and truncal obesity (OR 1.70) (all p < 0.01). Model discrimination was acceptable (AUC: 0.78, 0.70, 0.74). Conclusion: Age, general obesity, and abdominal adiposity are major drivers of cardiometabolic burden in this population. Targeted primary care screening and lifestyle interventions are urgently needed.