Unraveling the Spectrum of Hypertension among Adult Women in an Urban Area of North India through Level of Prevention-based Color-coded Stratification

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of hypertension (HTN) in adult females at the Urban Health Training Center (UHTC) of a private medical college using a color-coded stratification based on levels of prevention. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted during June–July 2023 at UHTC, a private medical college. The sample size was calculated as 256. First, a basic health assessment of the study population was done. This focused on basic socio-demographic data of the adult women, their health status and blood pressure reading, risk profile, treatment-seeking behavior, etc. A proforma was developed to record the data. The principal investigator did a level of prevention-based color-coded stratification for HTN patient segmentation. Results: The majority of respondents were married (75.4%). Their literacy rate was 72%. The majority of the respondents were homemakers (58.2%). The mean age of the respondents was 38.23 years (range 18–75 years). Monthly household income ranged from Rs. 1,000 to 60,000, with a mean of Rs. 10,611.72. The average family size was 4.61 members. Some (22%) of the respondents fell into the “Health promotion” category (Green), indicating that they were free of HTN. About 39% of respondents were categorized under “Specific protection” (Blue), signifying that they were at risk of developing HTN; 14% were diagnosed with HTN cases without apparent complications, classified as “Early Diagnosis/Treatment” (Yellow). About 21% of respondents were placed in the “Disability Limitation” (Orange) category, indicating some complications, while 4.3% were identified as HTN patients needing “Rehabilitation” (Red) due to serious complications. Conclusion: This approach of the color-coded stratification based on levels of prevention among adult females of UHTC revealed the spectrum of HTN in the general community. Overall, 39% of the respondents had HTN. About two-fifths of respondents were at risk of developing HTN. This method has the potential to enhance the individualized management of HTN.