Anthropometric indices and elevated blood pressure: A record-based study among employees of a tertiary health care institute in Telangana.

BACKGROUND

Hypertension is a major global health concern and a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease. With rising obesity rates, anthropometric indices such as body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) are increasingly used as non-invasive screening tools to identify individuals at risk of elevated blood pressure.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the association between anthropometric indices and elevated blood pressure among employees of a tertiary health care institute in Telangana.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among employees at Tertiary Healthcare Institute, Telangana during a hypertension screening drive. Participants included healthcare and administrative staff. Data were collected on height, weight, WC, and blood pressure using WHO-recommended protocols. Hypertension and pre-hypertension were defined as per JNC VIII criteria. Statistical analysis, including logistic regression, to evaluate associations between anthropometric measures and blood pressure.

RESULTS

A significant association was observed between elevated blood pressure and increased BMI, WC, and WHtR (P < 0.05). Central adiposity, male gender, and age > 30 years were identified as significant risk factors. Pre-hypertension was found in 23% of participants, indicating a high-risk group requiring early intervention.

CONCLUSION

Anthropometric indices are valuable tools for early detection of hypertension in occupational settings. Routine screening and workplace interventions focusing on lifestyle modifications are essential to prevent long-term cardiovascular complications.