Risk Factors of Hypertension in the Elderly: An Observational Study

Background: Hypertension is a significant non-communicable disease across the world which contributes to the worldwide disease burden. With the trend of graying population, this is a global pandemic. Objective: This study was aimed to assess the associated risk factors of hypertension in the elderly population in urban community of Dhaka city. Method: A total of 256 elderly people aged above 60 years with either pre-hypertension or hypertension were enrolled in this community-based cross-sectional study. The study period was January to July 2024. Results: It was found that, age, gender, being overweight, stress levels, red meat consumption and family history of hypertension were statistically significant with development of hypertension in the elderly. There was 3.5 times greater risk of development of hypertension in the elderly those who were overweight and had higher stress levels. It was also found that, those who not currently smoking, took normal amount of salt and consumed sufficient fruits and vegetables, were also vulnerable to hypertension. Diabetes mellitus was the commonest comorbidity in hypertensive elderly. Conclusion: Hypertension should be addressed with importance by the stakeholders, policy makers and the government in order to promote health awareness in the communities. Risk factors should be evaluated and prospective, larger-scale studies are recommended.