Prevalence and Factors Associated with High Blood Pressure Among People Aged Between 35 and 74 years in Ruhango District, Rwanda
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Hypertension remains a major global health problem, significantly affecting both individuals and broader populations. It contributes heavily to cardiovascular diseases, which are the leading causes of illness and death worldwide. The burden of high blood pressure is particularly high in low- and middle-income countries, especially among people aged between 35 and 79. Both changeable and unchangeable factors have been linked to the condition. A deeper understanding of its prevalence and contributing elements in this age range is critical for planning effective prevention, early detection, and policy development aimed at reducing hypertension. Objective: This study aimed to assess how common high blood pressure is and to identify the key contributing factors among individuals aged 35 to 74 years living in Ruhango District, Rwanda. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted using a multistage sampling approach. A total of 199 individuals were included, with the sample size estimated using accepted statistical formulas. Data were collected through structured interviews and physical measurements, including blood pressure readings taken according to World Health Organization standards. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Version 21, with significance determined at a p-value below 0.05. Results: Of the 199 respondents, 47.7% were diagnosed with hypertension. The rate was slightly higher among males (50.5%) than females (49.4%). Several factors showed significant associations with high blood pressure, including body mass index (p = 0.001), area of residence (p = 0.013), job status (p = 0.008), and income level (p = 0.001). Lifestyle-related factors such as tobacco use (p = 0.008), alcohol intake (p = 0.002), smoking (p = 0.008), poor dietary habits, and stress related to work (p = 0.001) were also strongly linked to the condition. Conclusion: The findings indicate that high blood pressure is still a major health issue in Ruhango District, particularly in more rural communities. The proportion of people affected was higher than previously recorded in similar studies. Since many of the risk factors are preventable, local health programs should focus on public awareness campaigns, promoting healthier lifestyles, and improving access to preventive care. Collaborative efforts between local authorities and the Ministry of Health should prioritize physical activity, healthy eating, stress reduction, and quitting smoking to reduce the burden of hypertension. Key terms: Hypertension. Prevalence, Associated Factors, Cross-Sectional Studies and Rwanda
Source: Global Journal of Health Ethics
Authors: Didier NDAYISHIMIYE, Amos HABIMANA
Institution: Mount Kigali University
Language: English
Subfield: Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4411842195