Factors influencing prevalence of hypertension among farmers in Kimende area - Kenya.

Abstract

Introduction: Hypertension is the largest contributor to global burden of disease accounting to 7% of global disability adjusted life years. Hypertension worldwide mortality is estimated to be 7.5 million. It is a risk factor for ischemic heart disease, hemorrhagic stroke, and coronary heart disease. This has been associated by various factors including the socio-demographic factors, economic factors, individual factors and the knowledge level. The elevated prevalence of hypertension is on the increase with higher morbidity and mortality levels. Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study design was used to determine the factors influencing the prevalence of hypertension among 224 farmers of Kimende area in Kenya. Purposive sampling method was used to identify and select the respondents whose weight, height and blood pressure measured to determine the BMI and the blood pressure of each respondent. Results: The prevalence of hypertension among the farmers of Kimende area in Kenya was 30%. The socio-demographic characteristics that influenced the prevalence of hypertension include: age, BMI, sex, tribe, religion, and occupation. The individual factors that had influence on the prevalence of hypertension include: smoking, higher number of cigarettes, taking alcohol, higher frequency of alcohol, and inadequate exercise. The knowledge level about hypertension was low. The socio-economic factors did not have any significant relationship with the prevalence of hypertension. Conclusion: Socio-demographic and individual factors were found to influence the prevalence of hypertension. Socio-demographic factors include: old age, higher BMI, religion being a Protestant, females, professionals, and kikuyu were at a higher risk of the being hypertensive in comparison to other groups. Recommendation: The recommendations of the study include empowering people with knowledge of hypertension, initiate programs to encourage proper health promoting behaviors like exercise, and discourage smoking and intake of alcohol.