Prevalence of Hypertension in People Aged 40 Years and Above

Background: A gap exists in the study of the prevalence of hypertension among people aged 40 years and above from different cities and hospitals in Punjab, Pakistan. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the prevalence and associated risk factors. Objective: To determine the prevalence of hypertension in individuals aged 40 years and above and to explore the relationship between hypertension and obesity, smoking, stress, family history, and various risk factors such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, salt intake, and fat intake. Methods: This observational study was conducted using a self-developed questionnaire. Participants were selected from different cities of Punjab province and those admitted to District Head Quarter (DHQ) Teaching Hospital, Sargodha. The study included 200 participants aged 40 years and above. Data collection was performed through a structured questionnaire, which covered socio-demographics, medical history, lifestyle factors, and clinical parameters. Blood pressure was measured using a calibrated mercury sphygmomanometer. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25, applying descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression models to determine associations between hypertension and risk factors. Results: Out of 200 participants, 47% were hypertensive, 49.5% had normal blood pressure, and 3.5% had low blood pressure. Age distribution was as follows: 64% were aged 40-50 years, 30.5% were aged 51-60 years, and 5.5% were aged 61 years and older. Among the participants, 39% had a family history of cardiovascular disease, 34.5% had raised blood lipid profiles, 36% were overweight, and 11% were obese. Additionally, 55% of participants were within the weight range of 61-80 kg. Conclusion: The study concluded that age, weight, cholesterol levels, salt intake, and physical inactivity are major factors contributing to hypertension among individuals aged 40 years and above. The prevalence of hypertension in this population was high at 47%. The findings highlight the need for targeted public health strategies to address these risk factors. Keywords: Hypertension Prevalence, Middle-Aged Adults, Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Obesity, Smoking, Stress, Family History, Blood Pressure, Punjab, Pakistan, SPSS Analysis