Predictors of Raised Blood Pressure and NCDs Among Adult Saudi Population in Buraidah, Saudi Arabia

Background: Hypertension is a major global risk factor for cardiovascular and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with obesity and aging playing significant roles. While extensive national research has been conducted across Saudi Arabia, targeted studies specifically addressing urban centers like Buraidah remain scarce, necessitating region-specific evidence. Objective: To examine the impact of body mass index (BMI), age, Sex, and physical activity on blood pressure (BP) levels among adults in Buraidah. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed electronic medical records (EMRs) of 25,589 Saudi adults aged 18–65 years, collected between January and April 2024 from two urgent care centers. Participants with pre-existing hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or dyslipidemia were excluded. The data included demographics, BMI, blood pressure (BP), and physical activity levels. We conducted statistical analyses including descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, multiple linear regression, and subgroup analyses stratified by BMI category. Results: BMI and age were significantly associated with both systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Notably, the impact of BMI on SBP was more pronounced among males. While physical activity showed a modest inverse relationship with DBP, it also had a smaller yet statistically significant association with SBP. Conclusion: Our study, the first of its kind in Buraidah, identified obesity and aging as key drivers of hypertension. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted public health initiatives particularly in weight management, early screening, and gender-specific care, to support the Saudi Vision 2030’s healthcare objectives. Limitations include the cross-sectional design, which precludes causal inferences.