What is the clinical evidence from this study?

Study design: Observational. Population: Hypertension (n=1029). Primary outcome: Prevalence of hypertension.

What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to evaluate the prevalence of hypertension and identify its associated risk factors in a South African community.

April 18, 2026Open Access

Hypertension Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors in a South African Population

Key Result

Risk factors including ageing, diabetes, higher body mass index, and unemployment were significantly associated with a 53.6% prevalence of hypertension in a South African community.

Key Points

This research aims to evaluate the prevalence of hypertension and identify its associated risk factors in a South African community.
Conducted an observational study with 1029 participants from 2019 to 2023.
Utilized South African Hypertension Society guidelines for hypertension prevalence determination.
Analyzed risk factors using univariate and multivariate logistic regression.
The prevalence of hypertension was found to be 53.6% among participants.
Mean blood pressure of participants was reported as 128/82.5 mmHg.
Significant risk factors identified included ageing, diabetes, higher body mass index, lack of education, unemployment, sedentary lifestyle, and rural living.

Study Design

Type

Observational (n=1,029)

Structured PICO

Population

1029 participants from a community in South Africa, mean age 48 years, 81.1% female.

Outcome

Prevalence of hypertension and associated risk factors

This study demonstrates a high prevalence of hypertension (53.6%) in a South African community, emphasizing the need for targeted health education and socioeconomic interventions.

Abstract

Worldwide, hypertension is a major risk factor for stroke and cardiovascular diseases, creating serious public health issues. This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors and the prevalence of hypertension in a community in South Africa. Between 2019 and 2023, an observational study with 1029 participants was carried out. The South African Hypertension Society hypertension guidelines were used to determine the prevalence of hypertension. Risk factors, such as anthropometric factors, socioeconomic factors, and lifestyle choices, were evaluated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Within the total study population, the mean age was 48 years, and 81.1 percent of the participants were female. The mean blood pressure was 128/82.5 mmHg and 48.7% of the participants were obese. The prevalence of hypertension was 53.6%. Significant risk factors for hypertension included ageing, diabetes, having a higher body mass index, not having formal education, being unemployed, leading a sedentary lifestyle, and living in a rural area. The study highlights the increased prevalence of hypertension in this South African population. The findings were consistent with the current literature with regard to hypertension risk factors, such as age, body mass index, education, and physical activity. Current data highlights the need for focused health education and awareness initiatives that encourage healthy living. Improving healthcare access and addressing the socioeconomic factors should be the main goals of policy initiatives to lessen the impact of hypertension in underprivileged rural communities.