Study of Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors for Hypertension in a Teaching Hospital

BACKGROUND is a major public health problem due to its high prevalence all around the globe. Hypertension is a common lifethreatening risk factor for cardiovascular disease in developing countries. We wanted to study the prevalence and associated factors for hypertension in a teaching hospital. was a prospective study conducted over a period of two years. A total of 650 adult OPD visiting patients with hypertension selected for the study. A detailed history was obtained, detailed examination and relevant investigations done. The patient , religion, education, marital status and occupation were recorded. 650 cases were included in the study. There were 69.2% males and 30.8% females and the male to female ratio was 2.25:1. were 61.5% and non-Hindus were 38.4%. Almost 97% individuals were married. 76.9% were private service employees. 15.3% of the population had never attended school; 53.8% had secondary education and 30.7% had primary education. prevalence of hypertension is relatively high in our rural community and is associated with being married, having a low level and falling into an older age group. Given the importance of BP control in reducing the risk of CVD, there is an need for strategies to promote BP screening at local health facilities as well as at community level.