Prevalence and awareness of Hypertension among the population aged 19-30 with respect to the associated factors pertaining to their lifestyle

Objective The aim of this study is to estimate the prevalence of hypertension in the population aged between 19-30 years and to analyze association of risk factors and lifestyle practices leading to hypertension among this population in Karachi. Background The young population has been considered as a target since they are generally considered to be healthy and free of hypertension. The detection of hypertension among the younger population will help in an efficient prognosis, in the intervention of the disease and a better understanding of the factors contributing to hypertension. Design It is a cross-sectional survey conducted at Jinnah Sindh Medical University and tertiary care hospitals JPMC, NICVD, NICH Karachi. Method Non-probability stratified sampling technique was used. The blood pressures of these participants along with their heights and weights were measured simultaneously. All the available people at the time of the survey fulfilling the inclusion criteria were interviewed. Result A total of 145 participants were enrolled in the study with a mean age of 22.75±3.11 years. Among them, 14 (9.7%) were found to be hypertensive while 43(29.7%) were found to be pre-hypertensive. In terms of knowledge 86.2% were aware of hypertension, 93.8% believed it to be a dangerous disease, 92.4% believed it required immediate medical attention, 94.5% had a history of the condition in their families. There was a significant correlation between hypertension and smoking (p=0.037).The most frequent causes of hypertension, according to participant responses, are an unhealthy diet, being overweight or obese, and a lack of physical activity. Conclusion Young adults have become highly susceptible to hypertension especially in Pakistan where awareness and management of the said disease is not up to mark. The impact of lifestyle of the youth on hypertension is significant. Even the slightest increase in the incidence of hypertension among this population is an alarming sign which indicates the need for early diagnosis and better preventive care.