Association Between Solid Fuel Use and the Risk of Hypertension in China

Abstract

Objective The aim of the study is to assess the association between solid fuel use for cooking or heating and the risk of hypertension among individuals older than 45 years. Methods Baseline questionnaires were used to collect self-reported primary cooking and heating fuel usage. Outcomes were defined as the time of first diagnosis of hypertension. Data were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models. Results Solid fuel use for cooking was associated with a higher risk of hypertension. The association between solid fuel for cooking and hypertension remained significant among residents in north China, individuals aged 45 to 65 years, urban residents, and nonsmokers. Solid fuel for heating was associated with a higher risk of hypertension only in South China. Conclusions Solid fuel use may result in an increased risk of hypertension. Our findings further emphasize the health hazards of solid fuel for cooking and heating.