RISK BASED STRATIFICATION OF HYPERTENSION IN TEACHERS OF UNIVERSITY OF PESHAWAR

Abstract

Introduction: Among the many risk factors for hypertension in the general population, sedentary and stressful lifestyle is a major known risk factor. Based on previous studies, the teaching profession is known for maintaining sedentary and stressful lifestyles, thereby suffering from higher than expected prevalence of hypertension. The objective of this study was to find the known risk factors associated with hypertension in teachers of University of Peshawar.

Materials & Methods: A Cross Sectional study was conducted from June 2010 to August 2010 in all colleges inside Peshawar University campus, which included Khyber Medical College, Khyber College of Dentistry, Peshawar University (all departments), University of Engineering and Technology, Jinnah College, Institute of Management Studies, Islamia College University and Agriculture University. Five hundred teachers of University of Peshawar were selected through random sampling technique. A closed-ended questionnaire was employed for collection of data. The data were analyzed using the computer software SPSS version 17.0, then presented in tabulated and graphical forms.

Results: Of the 500 teachers interviewed, 353 (70.6%) were male and 147 (29.4%) were female; 128(25.6%) teachers reported hypertension. Age above 40 years showed higher association with hypertension (110/128, 85.9%) as also a positive family history of hypertension (33%). Among overweight, 38.3% & among obese, 55.6% were found to be hypertensive; 29.3% of smokers were hypertensive as compared to 25.4% of non-smokers. All the hypertensive patients seemed to be stressed in one way or the other. Sedentary lifestyle also contributed towards development of hypertension as 39.5% of those living a sedentary lifestyle were hypertensive.

Conclusion: Multiple modifiable risk factors contributed to the prevalence of hypertension in teachers of Peshawar University. Teachers would likely benefit from lifestyle modifying measures to reduce hypertension.