“Correlation of Anthropometric Parameters and Family History of Hypertension with Inter-arm Blood Pressure Difference among Normotensive Adults in Ginchi Town, Western Ethiopia: A Community-based Cross- sectional Study”

Abstract

Abstract Background The risk factors and condition of cardiovascular disease have been associated with raised inter-arm blood pressure differences. Globally, the primary risk factor for cardiovascular death is hypertension. Regardless of a blood pressure differences between the arms, one-arm blood pressure readings are frequently performed in clinical settings. This practice has been related to poor control of hypertension and a higher rate of hypertension diagnosis delays. This study aims to determine the correlation between the inter-arm blood pressure difference and anthropometric parameters as well as a family history of hypertension.Methods From September 25 to November 15, 2022, a community-based cross-sectional study was carried out among adult normotensive residents of Ginchi town. 567 study participants were chosen using a multistage sampling technique. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to gather information on socio-demographic characteristics and family history of hypertension. Anthropometric parameters and blood pressure were measured using non-stretching tape, a combined digital weight and height scale, and a digital blood pressure apparatus, respectively. The correlation between continuous variables was shown by Pearson's correlation coefficient, while the correlation between continuous variables and categorical variables was examined using a one-way ANOVA and a two independent sample t-test.Results The study found that 52.96% of participants had increased blood pressure differences between arms; 39.2% (95% CI, 35.1–43.3) had increased systolic blood pressure differences between arms, and 13.76% (95% CI, 11-16.9) had increased diastolic blood pressure differences between arms.. Increased diastolic inter-arm blood pressure difference was statistically correlated with weight, arm circumference, waist circumference, body mass index, and family history of hypertension; elevated systolic inter-arm blood pressure difference was correlated with height, arm circumference, body mass index, and family history of hypertension.Conclusion Among persons with normotension, the increased interarm blood pressure difference was 52.96%, and it was significantly correlated with anthropometric parameters and a family history of hypertension. Thus, it is important to measure blood pressure in both arms as part of standard clinical practice. Additionally, more investigation is needed to elucidate the mechanism and causal relationship between cardiovascular risk factors and IAD.