Investigation of Risk Factors and Prevalence of Hypertension among Young Adults in Urban and Suburban Population of Central India

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of Hypertension and its risk factors among the elderly has been extensively researched in many studies on Hypertension in India and abroad. However, it has not been studied much among young adults in the age group of 20-40 years. Hypertension needs early intervention for prevention and control measures. Therefore, a study on the prevalence and risk factors of Hypertension among young adults in the age group of 20-40 years is essential to improve our efforts to reduce morbidity and mortality. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of Hypertension and its risk factors among young adults (20-40 years age group) in urban/suburban population. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 1000 young adults in the age group of 20-40 years was conducted in the urban and suburban localities of district Bhopal, MP, India, for ten months (Jan-Oct 2023). Socio-demographic data and risk factors of Hypertension were assessed by interviewing subjects. Blood pressure of every participant was measured under well-defined conditions. Results: Hypertension was detected in 219 subjects out of 1000 subjects (21.9%). There was a significant association (p<0.05) of BP with age, education status, occupation, socio-economic class, tobacco consumption, smoking, and alcohol consumption. No significant association was found with gender, religion, or family history with NCDs. Conclusion: Results showed that One in Five adults in urban/semi-urban population is having Hypertension without being aware of it. This is an alarming situation.