Socio-demographic factors, overweight/obesity and nutrients associated with hypertension among rural adults (≥18 years): Findings from National Nutrition Monitoring Bureau survey

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is the leading cause of death throughout the world. The study was conducted to assess the prevalence, determinants and knowledge & practices about hypertension among rural adults in India. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out in 10 major states of India. Information on socio-economic & demographic particulars was collected and anthropometric measurements like height, weight, waist & hip circumference and blood pressure were measured. Foods and nutrient intakes were assessed by 24-h recall method. Analysis was done using SPSS window 22. RESULTS: The prevalence of pre-hypertension was 45.3% (95% CI: 44.6–46.0) and hypertension was 22% (95% CI: 21.5–22.3) (age standardized prevalence; 20.2%) while, overweight/obesity was 22.6% (95% CI: 22.2–23.0) as per Asian cut offs (BMI≥23). The prevalence of hypertension was higher in West Bengal (29.5%) and Kerala (28.9%) and low in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh (16–19%). The odds of hypertension was 1.2 times higher among forward communities, businessmen, tobacco users and those consuming alcohol, 2–3 times higher among overweight (CI: 1.87–2.25) and obese (2.65–3.27). The odds of hypertension was 1.2 times higher among those consuming lower tertile of carbohydrates (CI = 1.02–1.41) and zinc (CI = 1.11–1.42). About 76% were aware of hypertension, 21% were old hypertensive & 19% were on treatment. Conclusions: Age standardized prevalence of hypertension was 20% among adults and was associated with age, occupation, overweight/obesity, tobacco and alcohol use, low intake of carbohydrates and zinc. Therefore, increasing awareness and consumption of healthy diet through behavior change communication will help to control hypertension among adults.