Assessment of the risk factors of hypertension among adult & elderly group in twin cities of Pakistan.

OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of hypertension and to explore the risk factors associated with it. METHODS In a cross-sectional study, a population based survey was conducted on inhabitants of Rawalpindi-Islamabad region, 219 individuals; aged 18 years or above were included in the study. Blood pressure was measured along with information about individual's demographic and socio-economic characteristics were obtained using a standard questionnaire.. RESULTS Overall prevalence of hypertension was 29.22% (males: 21.9% and females: 78.1%) in individuals residing in Rawalpindi-Islamabad. High blood pressure is more associated with obesity (59.4%) and a progressive increase in hypertension was observed with increasing age. Bivariate analysis revealed that hypertension has a significant correlation (p-value<0.05) with age, gender, family status, weight and physical health. CONCLUSIONS The study concludes that our generation is well aware about the risks and consequences of hypertension, but they still continue to make no or little effort in managing or preventing it. The factors contributing to hypertension are low physical activity, diet and lack of interest to maintain their health.