Awareness and Risk Reduction of Hypertension Among Adults in Ilala and Mkuranga Districts, Tanzania.

BACKGROUND

Hypertension is one of the major global public health problems that has been associated with an increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) such as stroke and ischemic heart disease. This study aimed to assess awareness and the practice of risk reduction of hypertension among adults in Ilala and Mkuranga districts, Tanzania.

METHODS

A community based cross sectional study was conducted whereby a total of 295 participants were interviewed using a questionnaire adapted from the World Health Organization (WHO). Stepwise approach for chronic disease risk factor surveillance was used to obtain the socio-demographic information, knowledge, awareness, and attitudes regarding hypertension using a structured set of questions. Blood pressure was measured and recorded. Descriptive statistics were used to describe and summarize the study findings. Pearson Chi-square test was used to compare and determine the association between categorical variables and hypertension. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to determine predictors of hypertension.

RESULTS

Statistical association for all comparisons was set at P<.05. Hypertension prevalence was high (36.9%) with high proportion of hypertensive individuals being aged between 30 to 44 years (48.6%), married or cohabiting (70.6%), self-employed (59.6%), attained primary education level (59.6%), earn <TZS 250,000 per month (47.7) and living in rural Mkuranga (48.6%). Over a third of hypertensive individuals were unaware of their condition. Although over half of studied individuals had good knowledge of risk factors for hypertension, their risk reduction practices were limited. Only 44.4% engaged in physical activity, 7.5% quit smoking, and 9.2% reduced their alcohol intake. However, in multiple logistic regression age and knowledge maintained its significant association with hypertension. Tailored community interventions are urgently needed to improve awareness and enhance preventive practices against hypertension.

CONCLUSION

This study underscores the urgent need for enhanced hypertension prevention strategies in study population. Significant gaps remain in awareness, risk perception, and adoption of preventive practices.