ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and epidemiological characteristics of hypertension in the Chinese She ethnic minority in Fujian province of China. After analyzing relevant risk factors of hypertension, we wanted to provide information for prevention and control of hypertension in this ethnic minority. METHODS: Using the stratified and cluster methods, we randomly selected 5,350 She subjects for a questionnaire survey. Their weight, height and blood pressure were measured. Hypertension was defined as a mean systolic blood pressure of ≥140 mm Hg or a diastolic blood pressure of ≥90 mm Hg, or use of antihypertensive medication. SPSS 13.0 software was used for database building and the χ(2) test for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The number of patients with hypertension was 1,931 (prevalence 36.09%) and 71.15% of them (1,374 patients) were undiagnosed. The prevalence of hypertension increased with age and was associated with education levels, occupation, body mass index, smoking, salt intake levels and a lack of health concepts. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of hypertension in the She has grown rapidly, which is closely correlated with lifestyle and lack of health education of hypertension. The prevention and control of hypertension in the She is imperative, and the promotion of health education on hypertension can be improved to enhance awareness, prevention, and control of hypertension.
