Prevalence of hypertension and peripheral arterial disease in adults in Léogâne, Haiti

Abstract

Back Background ground The prevalence of hypertension under different treatment guidelines and peripheral arterial disease are unknown in many low and middle-income populations. Methods Methods A community sample of adults ≥18 years in Léogâne, Haiti, had blood pressure and anklebrachial index (ABI) measurements in the Summers of 2014 and 2015 in addition to surveys to ascertain knowledge related to awareness and consequences of hypertension. Descriptive statistics for prevalence of hypertension and peripheral artery disease were performed. Sensitivity analyses were performed for hypertension prevalence under the Eighth Joint National Committee (JNC) and 2017 guidelines.

Chronological Impact of Earthquakes on Blood Pressure: A Literature Review and Retrospective Study of Hypertension in Haiti Before and After the 2010 Earthquake

“…The reported prevalence of hypertension has varied in the Haitian population. Hypertension prevalence has been reported to be 43.6 and 42.3% in Léogâne ( 28 ). Another study measured hypertension prevalence to be 31.6% in Port-au-Prince, and 37.6% in Marmont ( 29 ).…”

“…Von Willebrand's factor has been reported to remain elevated at 4-6 months post events, and it may be important to examine the risks of an earthquake-induced chronic hypercoagulable state secondary to prolonged elevation of risk factors ( 4 ). Finally, since hypertension is a well-known risk factor for cardiovascular-related mortality ( 28 – 30 ), it is important to assess the mortality of these patients with sustained hypertension post-earthquakes to further draw conclusions as to the impact of chronic hypertension on cardiovascular-related disease and mortality. By doing so, we can create specific treatment plans focused on BP management to improve long term as well as short term health in victims of environmental disasters.…”