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Background: The increasing prevalence and severity of hypertension with age has acquired the
status of an epidemic with long incubation period. It has been associated with various risk factors
such as alcoholism, smoking, stress and obesity, which has also started to affect the young
population due to modern lifestyle changes.
Objectives: To study the prevalence of hypertension and its risk factors among adults aged 20 years
and above residing in an urban area.
Methodology: A cross – sectional study was done among adults aged 20 years and above with
detailed history and physical examination to evaluate various risk factors associated with
hypertension.
Results: Out of 957 participants, 53.5% were males, 46.5% were females. Majority (33.9%) of
participants were aged 20 – 29 years and 28.4% had a positive family history of hypertension.
Overall prevalence of hypertension was 14.4%. 9.5 % had hypertension stage – 1, 4.9% had
hypertension stage – 2, and 11.1% had blood pressure in pre-hypertension range. Hypertension was
also more prevalent in the Upper class (27.7%). Among the participants 33.9% were in the habit of
consumption of alcohol, tobacco or both. 14.5 % were having mild to moderate self perceived stress.
Conclusion: Prevalence of hypertension was more in males compared to females because men have
more associated risk factors like smoking, alcohol and stress. Hypertensive should be advised for
regular health checkups, dietary modifications and life style changes. Regular screening and health
education camp and strengthening of health care services are essential for early diagnosis.
Key words: Hypertension, prevalence, risk factors, urban.