A Study on the Prevalence of Hypertension Among Young Adults in a Coastal District of Karnataka, South India

Abstract

Background: Young adults are largely overlooked in studies on hypertension as they are deemed to be at a low risk of developing the disease. Study of disease prevalence and socio-demographic variables provide the insight required to develop interventional strategies.Objectives: 1. To estimate the prevalence of Hypertension among young adults in Udupi District, Karnataka. 2. To study the socio-demographic variables associated with hypertension including age, sex, socio-economic status, Body Mass Index, dietary habits, tobacco use and alcohol consumption.Method: Data were obtained from 413 college students aged 18 years and older by a cross-sectional survey in selected degree college. Relevant clinical parameters were collected (blood pressure recordings and anthropometric measurements) as well as socio-demographic characteristics.Results: Hypertension was detected in 29 of the 407 subjects (7.1%), of which the majority were newly diagnosed (75.9%).Prevalence among men was higher (15.0% compared to 4.8% among women). A total of 46.7% of the students were found to have pre-hypertension. While 35.5% of studentswho were pre-obese or obese had high BP recordings, the same was found in only 7.1% of those in the normal weight range. Higher prevalence of hypertension was seen among those with a history of smoking or alcohol consumption.Conclusion: Most of the young adults with blood pressure were previously undiagnosed. A large number of students had prehypertension. Their early identification facilitates early, active management of blood pressure and formulation of preventive strategies thereby minimizing complications.