Abstract

Background High blood pressure is a health risk factor that is considered one of the highest causes of morbidity, one of the main leading causes for cardiovascular disease, and social global burden, in addition to the high-cost burden to the global health service providers. Blood pressure is affected by external and internal variables. Internal variables such as age, gender, and heredity cannot be changed. External variables such as exercise, reduced stress, and healthy diet can significantly improve blood pressure. Regular exercise can reduce blood pressure and help manage weight and stress. External factors gone unmanaged can cause hypertension that can lead to death.

Objective: To assess the risk factor for hypertension among the hilly rural population of India.

Materials and Methods: A community based case–control study conducted to investigate the risk factor for hypertension among the hilly rural population. In our study, we selected 12 villages, 6 from Nainital and 6 from Almora district of Uttarakhand state of India. In the 12 randomly selected villages of a hilly region of Uttarakhand state, 853 subjects of more than 18 years were screened for hypertension according to JNC 7 criteria; 119 cases and their age and sex-matched controls (1:1) were selected from August 1, 2014 to October 31, 2014. Cases and controls were interviewed with the help of appropriate schedule to elicit information pertaining to sociodemographic characteristics, behavioral parameters, and disease-related parameters. Anthropometric measurements and 24-h dietary recall method were used to assess the nutritional status.

Results: Statistically significant elevated odds ratio was noted for alcohol, smoking, obesity, and salt quantity in food in those in the study population. Statistically significant odds ratio was noted for physical activity, vegetable intake, and fruits intake in both sexes.

Conclusion: Physical activity, vegetable intake, and fruits intake seem to be a preventive factor for hypertension. Diabetes and dietary habit were not statistically associated with hypertension in both sexes.

Key words: Hypertension, hilly rural population, matched case control study