Original Research Article
Year: 2022 | Month: July | Volume: 12 | Issue: 7 | Pages: 62-69
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20220709
Prevalence of Prehypertension and Its Correlation with Body Mass Index in Undergraduate Students of Physiotherapy
Hiral Shah1, Ketaki Patani2
1Intern, 2Associate Professor, Department of Neuro-Physiotherapy,
Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam College of Physiotherapy, Pravara Institute of Medical Sciences, Loni, Maharashtra, India.
Corresponding Author: Hiral Shah
ABSTRACT
Background: Non-communicable diseases are increasing source of public health concern worldwide. Hypertension is one of the most common diseases affecting humans. Prehypertension (120-139/80-89 mmHg) is showing an alarming increase in young adults. Several factors influence the development of Prehypertension including environmental, socio-economic,lifestyle factors, demographic characteristics and genetic predisposition. Body Mass Index (excessive body fat deposition or adipose tissue accumulation) is directly related to high Systolic and Diastolic blood pressure.
Objective: To assess the magnitude of Prehypertension and to determine its correlation with Body Mass Index in university students.
Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 undergraduate students within the age group of 18-22 years was done. A semi structured pre-tested questionnaire was used to elicit the details on socio-demographic variables, dietary habits, smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity and family history of Hypertension. Anthropometric measurements and blood pressure were recorded according to standard protocols.
Result: Out of the total sample population, 52.5% students fall under the criteria of Prehypertension among which males had higher prevalence (32.38%). Vegetarian diet (OR:0.477, 95% CI:0.235-0.969), history of smoking (OR:0.130, 95% CI:0.043-0.394) and family history of Hypertension (OR:0.456, 95% CI:0.231-0.900) were significant correlates of Prehypertension. Significant positive correlation was seen between BMI and Mean SBP (r=0.258, p=0.0001) and also between BMI and Mean DBP (r=0.225, p=0.001).
Conclusion:Prehypertension is prevalent in 52.5% of students. The risk factors found to be significantly associated were history of smoking, family history of Hypertension. Body Mass Index and Prehypertension were found to be positively correlated to each other.
Key words: Prehypertension, Body Mass Index, Correlation, Risk factors.