Assessment of Risk Factors for Hypertension amongst the Staff of a Tertiary Institution in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. The aim of this study was to assess the risk factors for hypertension amongst the staff of a tertiary institution in Nigeria. Materials and Methods: All consenting staff of College of basic and clinical medical sciences of the Enugu State University College of Medicine participated in the study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on the background characteristics and risk factors for hypertension. The weight and height measures were used to calculate the BMI of the participants. A systolic blood pressure of 140 mmHg and a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg according to the guidelines from American Heart Association were classified as hypertension. Results: Majority of the staff (62.1%) were not aware of their blood pressure value. About 29.3% have a family history of hypertension, 17.9% are diabetic, 27.9% takes alcohol, 9.3% take tobacco, 20.0% exercises while 20.0% add salt to cooked food. Family history of hypertension, intake of alcohol and exercise were significant risk factors associated with hypertension. On logistic regression exercise [AOR = 0.119; CI = (0.030–0.481)] and family history of hypertension [AOR = 3.932; CI = (1.485–10.413)] positively predicted hypertension among the participants. Conclusion: The study revealed that both non modifiable (family history of hypertension) and modifiable risk factors (intake of alcohol and exercise) were significant risk factors for hypertension in the studied population. Hence, awareness should be directed to both areas.