Assessment of the Prevalence of Hypertension and Its Associated Risk Factors in a Rural Community in Gwalior District, India

Background: Hypertension is a major non-communicable disease and a leading contributor to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Its burden is increasing in rural India due to rapid lifestyle and epidemiological transitions. Objectives: This study aims to assess the prevalence of hypertension and its associated risk factors among adults in a rural community in Gwalior district. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May 2023 to April 2024 among 360 adults selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic, dietary, and behavioral factors. Anthropometric measurements and blood pressure were recorded using standard procedures. Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥ 140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ≥ 90 mmHg or current antihypertensive treatment. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the chi-square test. Results: Among 360 participants, 152 (42.2%) were aged 36-50 years and 180 (50.0%) were male. Hypertension was present in 139 (38.6%) participants, including stage 1 hypertension in 100 (27.8%) and stage 2 hypertension in 39 (10.8%). Pre-hypertension was observed in 106 (29.4%), while 115 (31.9%) had normal blood pressure. Overweight and obesity were found in 119 (33.1%) and 65 (18.1%) participants, respectively. Increased waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were observed in 162 (45.0%) and 157 (43.6%) participants, respectively. Extra salt intake was reported by 212 (58.9%), smoking by 99 (27.5%), alcohol consumption by 106 (29.4%), and smokeless tobacco use by 120 (33.3%) participants. Significant associations were found between hypertension and male sex, overweight/obesity, excess salt intake, smoking, alcohol consumption, and family history of hypertension (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Hypertension and pre-hypertension affected over two-thirds of the study population. Targeted screening, lifestyle modification, dietary interventions, and strengthened primary healthcare services are needed for early detection and prevention of hypertension.