Health status of hypertensive subjects, district. Karnal, Haryana

Abstract

Health is defined as the state of wellbeing and free from illness but over half of the world population is suffering from hypertension which is a major public health challenge to societies in socio-economic and epidemiological transition. The normal range of blood pressure as measured by the mercuric Sphygmomanometer is from 110/60 to 120/80 mmHg. A blood pressure persistently above 140/90 mm Hg of hypertension is termed as a hypertensive condition. This study was conducted to estimate awareness and its management among males and females of Karnal district by assessing their health status, dietary intake, and associated factors related to it. Data collection was done using a self-prepared structured questionnaire on 200 willing hypertensive subjects that were selected through purposive sampling method from the profile study. An equal number of males and females from the age group 31-60 years were selected for this study. The study revealed that the mean age of hypertensive subjects was 41-50 years. The majority of respondents were overweight due to poor lifestyle (lack or no physical activity) and dietary habits. It was observed that a higher percentage of hypertensive respondents were in the habit of using iodized salt. Also, the intake of water was less as per-day requirement i.e. 1.90 ± 0.78 liters’ males and 1.60 ± 0.49 liters females. Common foods restricte6d by hypertensive subject’s sweets, mutton, ghee, oil, bakery food, and pickles. The majority of respondents had disturbed sleep, job and health related stress which led to a rise in blood pressure. In conclusion, hypertension can be managed by structuring some therapeutic approaches like practicing yoga, walk, gym, jogging, meditation, anti-hypertensive medication, and many more. In the present study, more males were found to be practicing yoga as compared to females.