Rising Inequity in Hypertension Prevalence: Results of a Survey in Sorocaba-SP, Brazil, 2022

Abstract Background: Arterial Hypertension (AH) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Its prevalence among adults and the elderly is high globally and between 30-35% in Brazil. It is a primary reason for healthcare consultations, hospital admissions, and mortality. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the AH prevalence and to investigate its association with sociodemographic factors. Methods: A population-based, cross-sectional study on a cluster sample of 1,080 individuals. The analysis evaluated age, gender, education level, income. The statistical model estimated prevalence ratios (PR), 95% confidence intervals, while a concentration curve assessed sociodemographic inequalities. Results: An overall prevalence of 38.39% was observed, along with a significant association between AH and gender, age, education level, and income. The concentration curve revealed a distribution of AH higher among men and the elderly, concentration index = -0.31. Conclusions: These findings underscore the need for public policies aimed at reducing health inequalities and strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and control of AH for populations facing greater social vulnerability.