Prevalence and risk factors of hypertension among civil servants in Sidama Zone, south Ethiopia

INTRODUCTION: Hypertension is the leading cause of death and disability in adult populations globally. Its prevalence is increasing rapidly in Ethiopia. Studies conducted to date address different population categories. However, there is lack of data on the prevalence and risk factors of hypertension among civil servants working in various sectors and levels. OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence and risk factors of hypertension among civil servants in Sidama Zone, south Ethiopia. METHODS AND MATERIALS: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 1–30, 2019 on a sample of 546 civil servants selected randomly from different departments of Sidama Zone Administration. Data were collected using structured, face-to-face interviewer-administered questionnaire and standard physical measurements. The data were entered using Epi Data 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with hypertension. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were computed to assess the presence and strength of associations. RESULTS: A total of 546 civil servants responded resulting in a response rate of 94.9%. The prevalence of hypertension was 24.5% [95% CI: 23.3% - 25.6%]. The identified risk factors of hypertension were male sex (AOR 4.31[95% CI: 1.84–10.09]), moderate current alcohol consumption (AOR: 4.85; [95% CI: 1.73–13.61]), current khat chewing (AOR 2.97[95% CI: 1.38–6.40]), old age (AOR: 4.41[95% CI: 1.19–16.26]), being obese (AOR 5.94 [95% CI: 1.26–27.86]) and central obesity (AOR 3.57 [95% CI: 1.80–7.07]). CONCLUSIONS: One in four civil servants are hypertensive. Different demographic, behavioral and metabolic factors increase the odds of hypertension among civil servants. Prevention and control of hypertension shall involve promotion of healthy lifestyles such as weight management, regular physical activity and quitting or cutting down on harmful use of substances such as alcohol and khat.