Prevalence of Hypertension and Relationship with Anthropometric Indices in Urban Dwellers in Kwara State, Nigeria Prevalence and Predictors of hypertension in Kwara State

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is a growing public health concern with a rising prevalence and associated clinical outcomes, particularly in Nigeria. The association of hypertension with anthropometric indices is insufficiently described in Nigeria. Objectives: We aim to determine the prevalence of hypertension and its relationship with anthropometric indices. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of adults in seven urban communities in Kwara State, Nigeria. The study was done during World Kidney Day over a seven year period (2007-2015). Blood pressure, body mass index, waist circumference, and hip circumference were measured. Hypertension was defined as blood pressure ≥ 140/90mmHg. Results: One thousand five hundred and six adults were recruited, with a mean age of 44 ± 14 years, and a female preponderance (55%). The prevalence of hypertension was 30%, (30.2%) in males and (29.8% in females). Hypertension correlates significantly with age (r = 0.416, P = 0.001), BMI (r = 0.301, P = 0.001), hip circumference (r = 0.219, P = 0.001), waist-hip ratio (r = 0.225, P = 0.005), and waist circumference (r = 0.063, P = 0.045). The identified predictors of hypertension were; waist circumference had about 17% increased risk for hypertension (OR = 1.169, CI = 1.021 – 1.340, P = 0.024), body mass index, 11% (OR = 1.113, CI = 1.059–1.170, P = 0.001), and age 5% (OR = 1.052, CI = 1.034 – 1.070, P = 0.001).Conclusion:The prevalence of hypertension is high in urban population of Kwara State, and is similar in men and women, but it increases with age, high body mass index, and waist circumference.