University of Limpopo|University of Limpopo|University of Limpopo|University of Limpopo|University of Limpopo
hypertension problem already faced urban populations south africa little known prevalence risk factors rural areasto assess prevalence risk factors associated hypertension amongst adults rural community south africadikgale health demographic surveillance site limpopo province south africaa communitybased crosssectional survey carried site individuals aged 15 years older screened using locally adapted version world health organization stepwise questionnaire demographics anthropometry three independent blood pressure bp readings taken average three bp measurements used analysis hypertension taken systolic diastolic bp 140 90 mmhg respectively least twoweek history antihypertensive treatment analysis included chisquare test statistical significance set p 005a total 1407 individuals interviewed 1281 complete bp weight height measurements taken mean age participants 442 2 09 years range 1598 years 63 female 55 single 90 unemployed whilst 13 tobacco smokers 20 reported drinking alcohol overall prevalence hypertension 41 significantly associated age marital statusthe prevalence hypertension found high prevention strategies urgently needed address lifethreatening important risk factor cardiovascular disease rural limpopo province