Logistic Regression Analysis on Hypertension and Lifestyle Risk Factors in Rural India

Background: Hypertension is the most important risk factor for chronic disease burden in India. The numbers of peoples affected and the prevalence of hypertension in rural India are expected to increase over the next decade. Aim and Objectives: To determine the prevalence and associated lifestyle risk factors of hypertension in rural India. Materials & methods: A community based cross sectional study was done among age group 40 years & above in rural area of eastern UP, India. Multistage and probability proportional to size sampling procedure was used. Statistical analysis: Data of 1856 individuals for prevalence of hypertension and associated risk factors were analysed and 2 value for each of the risk factors were calculated. Logistic regression analysis was used to predict hypertensive population associated with different risk factors also Adjusted Odd Ratio and corresponding Forest plot were also discussed in detail for each lifestyle risk factors. Results: The overall prevalence of hypertension was found to be 29.1%. Obesity and diabetes were strongly associated with hypertension. Compared to age group (40-49) years, others groups (50-59), (60-69), (70& above) were 2.44, 3.67, 5.33 times (AOR=2.44, 3.67, 5.33) more likely to have hypertensive population. Hypertension occurs nearly equal in both male and female (AOR=1.007; 95%CI: 0.77-1.32). In this study smokers, obese and diabetic person are more likely to have hypertension. Smokers have 1.38 times more chance to become hypertensive (AOR=1.380; 95%CI: 1.01-1.88) than non-smokers while in alcoholic and non-alcoholic population have equal chance (AOR=1.009; 95%CI=0.74-1.37) to become hypertensive. Conclusion: There is need to implement comprehensive lifestyle modification program such as promotion of healthy dietary habits, physical activity, tobacco cessation, avoidance of excessive intake of alcohol and stress, which may play major role in prevention of new hypertensive cases.