Prevalence and associated risk factors of hypertension among tribal population in Thrissur District: A cross-sectional study in South India

Introduction: Hypertension is the major cause of premature death worldwide. There are disparities in the prevalence of hypertension across cultural groups. This study aimed to explore the prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of hypertension and the associated factors among the adult tribal population in Kerala, India. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 206 adult tribal population in Thrissur district in Kerala. World Health Organization STEPS questionnaire for non -communicable disease risk factor surveillance was used. We measured blood pressure, weight and height using standard protocols. Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure (SBP)>= 140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure (DBP)>= 90 mmHg or on medication for high blood pressure. Multivariate logistic regression was done to find out the associated factors with hypertension. Results: The mean age of the participants was 44.7 years (SD +/- 13.9; men:30%). Around 24% of the participants did not receive any formal education. Current tobacco prevalence was 28% and alcohol consumption was 19%. Nearly 63% were physically active. Prevalence of overweight was 33%. Hypertension prevalence was 48%. Among the hypertensive participants, 59% were aware of their condition, of which 74% were under treatment, and 7.8% achieved adequate control. In the age-sex adjusted multivariate analysis, being diabetic was the highest significant factor associated with the prevalence of hypertension (OR:9.58, CI: 1.87-49.07), followed by being overweight (OR:5.48, CI: 2.49-12.03). Conclusion: This study indicates a high prevalence of hypertension and overweight among the selected tribal population. Our research highlights the importance of regular monitoring and consistent adherence to treatment for hypertension and other risk factors in this population.