Exploring Predisposing Factors and Awareness of Hypertension in a Rural Indian Community

Dr. Latha Maheswari, Dr. R. G. Anand, Dr. P. Jeyalakshmi, Akshitha Ramalingam, Ananyaa Gautam

Abstract: Hypertension is a critical public health challenge, often undetected or uncontrolled. This study identifies predisposing factors associated with hypertension and evaluates awareness levels among adults in a rural Indian community. A community-based cross-sectional study using pre-tested questionnaires and statistical methods revealed that lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, high BMI, and physical inactivity significantly increase hypertension prevalence. Alarmingly, only 49% of hypertensives were aware of their condition, with just 25% receiving treatment. Findings underscore the urgent need for educational initiatives integrated into primary healthcare to improve awareness and management of hypertension.

Keywords: Hypertension, rural health, risk factors, smoking and alcohol, physical inactivity

How to Cite?: Dr. Latha Maheswari, Dr. R. G. Anand, Dr. P. Jeyalakshmi, Akshitha Ramalingam, Ananyaa Gautam, "Exploring Predisposing Factors and Awareness of Hypertension in a Rural Indian Community", Volume 13 Issue 11, November 2024, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1445-1448, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR241120113302, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR241120113302