Prevalence of hypertension among elderly residing in slums of west Delhi

Abstract

Objective: The present study was carried out to assess the prevalence of hypertension among elderly in slums of West Delhi. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 202 elderly residing in urban slums of West Delhi. Hypertension was classified as per JNC VII criteria. Blood pressure was measured twice using digital machine (OMRON) after an interval of 5 min. The data obtained were analyzed for percent prevalence, mean, standard deviation, and median. Results: The overall prevalence of hypertension was 49.1%; higher among male (56.0%) than female (41.9%). The prevalence of Stage I, Stage II, and isolated systolic hypertension was 30.7%, 18.8%, and 47%, respectively. Conclusion: Almost half of the elderly population in slums was hypertensive. Periodical health checkup and management through treatment and dietary and lifestyle modification is needed.