Prevalence of hypertension and associated behavioural risk factors among low income adults in Kiambu County, Kenya

Abstract

Hypertension is one of the critical risk factors for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and a leading risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and premature death. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hypertension and quantify related behavioural risk factors in Kiambu County, Kenya. A cross-sectional study design was used, and data were collected using adapted WHO stepwise questionnaire. A total of 310 participants took part in the study. Majority, (76%) were females and participants’ mean age was 45.3 years. Results showed 31% of participants had hypertension (systolic blood pressure ≥140 and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg). Social-demographic characteristics associated with hypertension included male gender (AOR=2.33; 95% CI 1.09-4.99), older age groups (AOR=3.1-11.3 p<0.05) and history of hypertension (AOR=10.59; 95% CI 5.06-22.13). behavioural factors associated with hypertension were, alcohol consumption (AOR=3.3; 95% CI 1.66-6.57), being overweight (AOR=5.4; 95% CI 2.91-10.01) and obese (AOR=13.4; 95% CI 5.21-34.26). Eating fruits daily (AOR=0.5; 95% CI 0.25-0.96), being physically active (AOR=0.51; 95% CI 0.28-0.90) and rarely adding raw salt to cooked food (AOR=0.19; 95% CI 0.07-0.51) were associated with reduced odds of being hypertensive. In conclusion, the prevalence of hypertension was high at 31% and was associated with modifiable behavioural factors. Lifestyle factors associated with increased odds of being hypertensive were alcohol consumption, physical inactivity and being obese. Eating fruits daily and avoiding raw salt were protective dietary practices against hypertension. Targeted intervention measures focused on healthy diet and healthy lifestyle choices for control of blood pressure such physical activity and avoiding alcohol consumption are recommended.