Cross-sectional evaluation of overlooked risk enhancer for hypertension among primary care patients: social isolation.

BACKGROUND: Associations between social network usage and hypertension are poorly understood among primary care patients. The present study aimed to investigate the association between social isolation and hypertension among the middle-aged and older population in primary care. METHODS: This cross-sectional research was conducted on a face-to-face basis with 411 patients applying to primary healthcare centers in Ankara, Turkey. After collecting sociodemographic characteristics and relevant medical history, social isolation was assessed using the Lubben Social Network Scale-6 (LSNS-6), with a total score of ≤ 12 indicating social isolation. Physical activity was measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (Short Form). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with hypertension. RESULTS: Of the participants, 41.4% were hypertensive and 33.6% were socially isolated. Of those diagnosed with hypertension, 50.6% had uncontrolled blood pressure. Hypertension was significantly more common in socially isolated individuals (54.70% vs. 18.70%; p < 0.001). Participants with a strong social network had significantly higher rates of blood pressure goal attainment (53.60% vs. 37.20%; p < 0.032). Analysis using multivariable logistic regression demonstrated that older participants [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 1.13, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.09,1.17, p < 0.001], diagnosed with diabetes (AOR = 2.57, 95%CI = 1.46,4.53, p = 0.001), and lower levels of social engagement (AOR = 3.78, 95%CI = 2.13, 6.71, p < 0.001) were more likely to be hypertensive. CONCLUSION: Not having strong social relationships appears to be associated with hypertension in primary care as well as diabetes and increased age. Future interventions to improve hypertension prevention and control should be tailored to address individual social deprivation.