Obesity-related hypertension: Findings from The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2008–2010

Abstract

We aimed to investigate the association of various obesity parameters and phenotypes with hypertension in nationally representative Korean adults. Among adults aged 19 years and older who participated in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in 2008-2010, a total of 16,363 subjects (8,184 men and 8,179 women) were analyzed. Hypertension was defined as blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg or higher or taking antihypertensive medication. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to estimate multivariable-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Higher obesity parameters [body mass index (BMI) representing general obesity, waist circumference (WC) representing central obesity, and percentage body fat (PBF) representing elevated body fat] were consistently associated with increased odds of prevalent hypertension (OR, 7.54; 95% CI, 5.89-9.65 for BMI �30 vs. 18.5-23; OR, 3.97; 95% CI, 3.41-4.63 for WC �95 cm in males and �90 cm in females vs. <85 cm in males and <80 cm in females; OR, 3.56; 95% CI, 3.05-4.15 for PBF, highest vs. lowest quartile; all p trends<0.0001). These associations were stronger in the younger age group (<40 years), and were observed in both sexes. Furthermore, even in individuals with normal BMI (18.5-23), the odds of prevalent hypertension were consistently increased in those with central obesity (WC�90 cm in males, WC�80 cm in females; normal weight central obesity phenotype) (OR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.63-2.19) and those with high PBF (highest quartile of PBF; normal weight obesity phenotype) (OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.25-1.77). These associations were consistent with updated hypertension guidelines in 2017. Obesity may be positively associated with hypertension, regardless of obesity parameters. Even within normal BMI range, high WC and high PBF may be associated with hypertension.

Association Between Waist Circumference and the Prevalence of (Pre) Hypertension Among 27,894 US Adults

“…In our study, both waist circumference and BMI showed a stronger association with hypertension in young adults compared with the elderly. The age-related difference has been reported in previous studies ( 44 – 47 ). For example, in a cross-sectional study based on the Korean National Health and Nutrition Survey, waist circumference and BMI were reported to increase the risk of hypertension.…”

“…For example, in a cross-sectional study based on the Korean National Health and Nutrition Survey, waist circumference and BMI were reported to increase the risk of hypertension. The association was stronger in adults aged 19–39 years than those aged 40–64 years or >65 years across all BMI and waist circumference categories ( 44 ). However, the biological mechanisms underlying the age-related difference remain controversial.…”

Gender Differences in Prevalence and Risk Factors for Hypertension among Adult Populations: A Cross-Sectional Study in Indonesia

“…Abdominal central obesity is a risk factor of hypertension [ 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 ], which is in line with findings from the current study. All obesity measurement parameters (body mass index, central obesity, and body fat percentage) were associated with an increased likelihood of developing hypertension [ 23 ]. Abdominal obesity revealed the accumulation of abdominal fat, which implied kidney problems involving sodium reabsorption disorders and results in increasing blood pressure [ 20 ].…”

Contribution of Different Phenotypes of Obesity to Metabolic Abnormalities from a Cross-Sectional Study in the Northwest China

“…In this article, all types of obese patients have increased risks of hypertension and hyperuricemia compared with NW group, which fits well with many previous studies. 13,14,[55][56][57] The increase in serum UA in obese individuals may be attributed to two factors: overproduction and poor renal excretion. Most obese patients have excess energy, which may result in over-production of purine.…”