Stress as a possible cause of a high incidence of hypertension and diabetes and a low incidence of asthma in the Iraqi population

Abstract

Hypertension and diabetes represent a significant public health burden worldwide and are significant risk factors for heart disease and stroke. Nevertheless, Iraqi people, in particular, experience higher levels of stress due to political instability and economic issues. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of common morbidities among Iraqi patients and the possible relationship with exposure to stress. The data was collected from patients (n=500) who attended the health center in Najaf, Iraq, between 25 August 2021 and 30 September 2021. The prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, and asthma among Iraqi people was determined along with patients’ awareness and control of these conditions. In addition, patients were asked about their experiences with stress, including the type of stress they encountered. Our findings revealed that nearly 47% of patients involved in this study had hypertension, with the highest percentage in patients over 40. Moreover, the incidence of diabetes was 12%, with the highest incidence in the age group of 40-59. The incidence of asthma was lower in all groups. Data analysis concerning exposure to stress demonstrated that about 60% of patients suffer from a stressful life. We found that the incidence of hypertension and diabetes was high while the incidence of asthma was low. This study also reveals that a considerable number of people were unaware of their hypertension and diabetes. Exposure to daily life stress among Iraqi people may play a role in the observed incidence of these morbidities.