Prevalence And Bio- Social Predictors Of Hypertension In Rural Dehradun.

ABSTRACT

Abstract Background and Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases account for a large proportion of all deaths and disability worldwide. Hypertension is directly responsible for 57% of all stroke deaths and 24% of all coronary heart disease deaths in India. Studies have shown a high prevalence of hypertension in both urban and rural areas. Although there is generally a lower prevalence of hypertension in rural Indian population, there has been a steady increase over time in this rural population as well. Methodology: This observational cross sectional study was conducted in a randomly chosen block in district Dehradun. Overall 457 people were interviewed and measurements were taken to know the prevalence of hypertension and related risk factors. The collected data was entered and analysed in SPSS software (21.0 version ). Results: The prevalence of hypertension was 23.9% and male subjects had higher prevalence than females (26.2% and 21.5%respectively). With increasing age, prevalence of hypertension increased significantly. Age, sex, marital status, family type and occupation were found as important bio-social predictors of hypertension. Conclusion: Increasing prevalence of hypertension in rural areas and in younger age groups is of concern to the public health. In developing countries like India, preventive strategies should be directed towards masses with focus on behaviour change communication.