Prevalence, trends, and associated factors of isolated systolic, diastolic, and systolic–diastolic hypertension in Peru: A nine-year analysis of the Demographic and Family Health Survey

Introduction

While HTN is widely seen as a primary threat to cardiovascular conditions worldwide, it is essential to recognize that not all HTN is identical.

Objective

To determine the prevalence, trend, and factors associated with each type of HTN: isolated systolic (ISH), isolated diastolic (IDH), and systolic–diastolic (SDH).

Methods

A secondary analysis of data from the Demographic and Family Health Survey from 2014 to 2022 was conducted. For the analysis of associated factors, a Poisson regression model with robust variance was implemented to calculate adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) along with their 95% confidence intervals.

Results

The prevalence was 7.02%, 1.55%, and 3.28% for ISH, IDH, and SDH, respectively. ISH showed a decline in 2022, unlike the other two types, which seem to be on the rise. A statistically significant association was found in men and an increased risk with age for ISH and SDH, unlike IDH, where age acts as a protective factor. Additional factors identified include smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, while a high intake of fruits/vegetables offers a protective effect. Obesity and diabetes were associated with a higher risk, and significant variations by region and altitude, as well as among ethnic groups, were observed.

Conclusions

Significant differences in the prevalence of HTN subtypes have been found, underscoring the heterogeneity of this chronic condition, both in related factors and in trends over the years.