Title : Predictors of hypertension and blood pressure control in Ethiopia: Implications for healthy aging
Abstract:
Background: The global population is aging, leading to an increased burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like hypertension. Ethiopia is experiencing a demographic transition, with a rapidly growing older adult population. Effective management of hypertension is crucial for promoting healthy aging and reducing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
Objective: This study aimed to analyze the predictors of hypertension and evaluate blood pressure control among a cohort of hypertensive and diabetic-hypertensive patients at Jimma University Medical Center, Ethiopia, to inform strategies for healthy aging.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 420 adult patients (≥35 years) with a diagnosis of hypertension, with and without diabetes. The study used a structured questionnaire and medical record review to collect data on socio-demographics, lifestyle factors, clinical characteristics, and medication adherence. Blood pressure control was defined as <140/90 mmHg (<130/80 mmHg for diabetics). Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of poor blood pressure control.
Results: The mean age of the participants was 58.7 ± 11.2 years, with 34.6% being 65 years or older. Overall, only 38.1% of participants had their blood pressure controlled. Significant predictors of uncontrolled hypertension included: poor medication adherence (AOR: 3.6; 95% CI: 2.1–6.0), presence of diabetes (AOR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.3–3.5), low physical activity (AOR: 2.2; 95% CI: 1.4–3.6), and older age (≥65 years) (AOR: 1.9; 95% CI: 1.1–3.3).
Conclusion and Implications for Aging: Blood pressure control is alarmingly poor among this patient population, particularly among older adults. Suboptimal medication adherence and lifestyle factors are key determinants of poor control. These findings highlight the critical need for age-sensitive, patient-centered interventions to improve medication adherence and lifestyle management. Strengthening primary healthcare and chronic disease management programs is essential for mitigating the burden of cardiovascular disease and ensuring healthy aging in Ethiopia's evolving demographic landscape.
Keywords: Hypertension, Blood Pressure Control, Healthy Aging, Chronic Disease, Ethiopia.
