Factors associated with high blood pressure and stress in men deprived of liberty

Abstract

Objectives: to identify and classify blood pressure and self-reported stress in inmates and investigate the association of these events with clinical and sociodemographic data. Methods: a cross-sectional and quantitative study with 240 inmates. A sociodemographic questionnaire, Lipp’s Inventory of Stress Symptoms for Adults, blood pressure classification, waist circumference and Body Mass Index were used. Results: mean age of 37.17 years (SD 11.5), 48.8% (n=117) single, 42.9% (n= 103) brown. The majority 67.9% (n=163) had been incarcerated for less than 4 years and 33.8% (n=81) were hypertensive. Blood pressure was compatible with the general population. Smoking, consumption of antihypertensive and hypoglycemic medications, concern about salt consumption, and a family history of hypertension were associated with self-perceived stress (resistance and exhaustion). Conclusions: the group is exposed to modifiable risk factors, especially stress, which favor hypertension and lack preventive strategies and access to health.