Prevalence of hypertension and associated cardiovascular risk factors in patients attending a family practice clinic in Ile- Ife, southwest Nigeria

Abstract

The prevalence of hypertension and its complications amongst the black race is high and constitute a significant disease burden worldwide. Even though Hypertension is common, majority of affected individuals are not aware. This study determined the prevalence of hypertension amongst the family practice population and ascertained the anthropometric and clinical correlates of the studied population. Methods: All new patients attending the family practice clinic over a period of six months were screened for hypertension. Patients were taken through a brief medical history and had their socio-demographic data and anthropometric data taken. Laboratory investigations assessed include: Serum chemistry, fasting blood glucose and lipid profile. Results: One thousand one hundred and six (1106) patients were screened; out of which two hundred and fifteen (215) were hypertensive representing a prevalence of 19.6%. Age range was 17 to 82 years (Mean ± SD; 57.53 ± 13.02yrs). Majority were females (61.4%). 4.7% smoked while 12.1% consumed alcohol. Fifty-eight percent of the patients were either overweight or obese, 5.8% had
hyperglycaemia while 40% had glomerular filtration rate (GFR) less than 60 mls/min. There was a positive correlation between age and Systolic BP (r=0.231, p<0.001) as well as Diastolic BP (r=-0.304, p <0.001). Also, there was a positive correlation between serum creatinine and Systolic BP (r=0.158, p=0.04) as well as Diastolic BP (r=.272, p<0.0001).There was also positive correlation between Triglyceride levels and BMI (r=0.176, p=0.035) as well as waist - hip ratio (r=.226, p=0.007). Conclusion: The prevalence of hypertension and associated CVD risk factors were high among the study population. A high proportion of our patients had chronic kidney disease (CKD). Regular community screening and preventive programme at the primary and secondary care levels would reduce this trend.