Journal of Hypertension: Open Access

Prevalence of Hypertension and Association with Increased Body Mass in a Semi-Urban Settlement in Nigeria

Abstract

Abiodun M Adeoye, Williams O Balogun, Adewole Adebiyi and Bamidele O Tayo

Introduction: Hypertension is a major cardiovascular disease and is responsible for fatal cardiovascular outcomes such as stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure and renal failure. In Nigeria, the prevalence of hypertension and its associated complications is increasing at an alarming rate. Whereas excess weight is associated with increased rate of death from cardiovascular diseases, data on association between excess weight and hypertension in Nigerian population are sparse. In the present study we investigated the association between excess body weight and hypertension in a Nigerian semi-urban settlement.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out at the Kumapayi settlement located in the suburb of Ibadan in southwestern Nigeria. A total of 293 subjects, comprising 40% males, aged 18 years and above who consented to the study following a period of publicity and invitations to all residents of the settlement were enrolled into the study. Demographic, anthropometry and blood pressure measurements were carried out on all the subjects by trained health personnel.

Results: Mean subject age was 47.3 ± 15.2 years with 28.9% overweight (BMI 25-29 kg/m2) and 21.6% obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2). The prevalence of overweight and obesity increased with age peaking at age 40-64 years and then falling. The prevalence of hypertension (BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg) was 43.3%. There was significant association between increased BMI and both systolic (P<0.001) and diastolic (P<0.002) pressure.

Conclusion: This study confirmed the association between overweight/ obesity and hypertension. Lifestyles changes targeted at weight reduction may help to stem the increasing trend of cardiovascular diseases in the community.