PREVALENCE OF PRE-HYPERTENSION IN POPULATION OF SOUTH INDIA

Background: Estimating the prevalence of pre-hypertension becomes important in population to take preventive measures and to decrease the burden of hypertension. Aim: Aim of study was to estimate the prevalence of prehypertension and determine the factors associated with hypertension. Methods: The study was conducted on 812 out patients. Data regarding basic demo graphic characteristics were collected anthropometric measurements including height and weight were measured, dietary habits addictions like smoking and alcohol were noted. Per-hypertension is defined as systolic Blood pressure 120-139 mmHg and diastolic Blood pressure 80-89 mmHg. Results: prevalence of pre hypertension is estimated to be 32.87%. Dietary n factors like salt intake, alcohol consumption, family history of hypertension and diabetes mellitus had significant association with pre-hypertension. Conclusion: Early intervention is need as prevalence of pre- hypertension is found to be very high and to decrease the burden of hypertension.