The Prevalence of Hypertension and Associated Risk Factors in a Latino Subgroup: A Rural Batey Population in the Dominican Republic

Abstract

Abstract:Objective: To determine the prevalence of hypertension and identify variables associated with hypertension among residents of Batey 16. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults residing in Batey 16 of La Romana, Dominican Republic. Residents were approached house to house and invited to participate in a blood pressure screening and a survey pertaining to risk factors for hypertension. Blood pressures and waist circumferences were measured. Comparisons between the hypertensive and non-hypertensive group's survey results, heights, and waist circumferences were made using chi square, Student's t-test or Mann-Whitney test, and univariate linear and logistic regression analysis. Results: Of the 187 participants, age 35±16 years (range 18-107 years), 34% were diagnosed with hypertension and 42% with were diagnosed with pre-hypertension. Age, sex, height, waist circumference, and use of medication were not significantly different between the hypertensive and the non-hypertensive participants. These variables in addition to elevated waist circumference were not associated with hypertension. Family history was an independent predictor of hypertension (OR= 2.7, p= 0.013; 95% CI, 1.2-5.8). Conclusions: The batey population has many unique characteristics that may contribute to its prevalence of hypertension and the patterns found in the associated risk factors. Further research needs to be conducted to broaden, explore, and clarify our findings.

Development and feasibility of a community‐partnered nutrition intervention targeting rural migrant communities in the Dominican Republic

“…While bateyes are found throughout the Dominican Republic, those in rural areas experience physical isolation (Ho, Press, & Sethna, ). Like other rural impoverished communities, bateyes often lack access to potable water and electricity, as well as basic health and education services (Ho et al., ; USAID/Dominican Republic, , USAID/Dominican Republic, ). These factors can result in an increased risk for poor nutritional outcomes.…”

“…Many of these families have young children and live in bateyes, or towns, described as ‘former sugar cane work camps’ (USAID/Dominican Republic, ). While bateyes are found throughout the Dominican Republic, those in rural areas experience physical isolation (Ho, Press, & Sethna, ). Like other rural impoverished communities, bateyes often lack access to potable water and electricity, as well as basic health and education services (Ho et al., ; USAID/Dominican Republic, , USAID/Dominican Republic, ).…”