Characterization of hypertensive patients treated at a university polyclinic in the Southern Region of the city of São Paulo

Abstract

Introduction: The diagnosis of arterial hypertension is made with the measurement of blood pressure in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. Currently, changes in the lifestyle of individuals with unhealthy habits have been observed. The consequence of such habits is a growing number of cases of chronic degenerative diseases, and those that stand out are cardiovascular diseases. However, there are few studies on the frequency and consequences of the disorders caused by these diseases. The lifestyle directly influences cardiovascular health, so encouraging young people to eat healthy habits with physical activity practices, food education and non-use of tobacco can prevent the emergence of these diseases. Objective: To characterize hypertensive patients treated at a polyclinic regarding gender, age and time of diagnosis Method: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in a University Polyclinic in the city of São Paulo, located in the south zone. Information was collected on gender, age, Body Mass Index, office blood pressure, knowledge about the disease and individual lifestyle. Results: Participants were 36 patients, of which 76.77% were female and 23.23% were hypertensive in treatment. Age ranged from 39 to 49 years, 60% of them diagnosed between 1 and 5 years, and there was high knowledge about hypertension, changes in eating habits and lifestyle. Conclusion: The prevalence of female patients with arterial hypertension was observed. The sample studied represents a group of the population with good knowledge about the disease, understanding the need to maintain a healthy lifestyle.