ABSTRACT
Hypertension is one of the major public health problems and it is prevalent all over the world. It is a ‘silent killer’ as it is asymptomatic until its effects like Stroke, Myocardial Infarction, Renal dysfunction or visual problems are observed. So, the assessment on the risk factors which contribute more to development of blood pressure and the efforts at an early stage to control them will prevent the health hazards of Hypertension. The aim of the study was to identify the risk factors for Hypertension among patients attending Medicine OPD of Sree Mookambika Institute of Medical Sciences (SMIMS). This study also evaluated the complications associated with hypertension.This hospital based case control study was conducted in the Medicine OPD of SMIMS during March 2012. 100 consecutive Known hypertensive patients aged ≥40yrs were taken as cases. Another 100 age and sex matched non-hypertensive patients from the same OPD were taken as controls. Pretested questionnaire was applied to get the socio-demographic details and life style. Height, weight, BP and Hip Circumference were measured. Complications were assessed from the history and medical records. The analysis shows that family history of hypertension (OR=2.614, p-value=0.002) and Obesity (OR=1.833, p-value=0.040) are the major risk factors for hypertension. Among the complications, Coronary artery disease (OR=1.949, p-value=0.048) and Retinopathy (OR=2.111, p-value=0.015) are most commonly associated with hypertension. Diabetes, Stroke, Peripheral vascular disease, Neuropathy are also more with hypertension than controls but statistically not significant. The positive family history and Obesity are the significant risk factors for hypertension. Coronary Artery Disease and Retinopathy are the most common complications of hypertension. Health education is to be given to the patients on the risk factors for hypertension and its prevention. Prompt control of hypertension should be imparted to avoid complications.