PREVALENCE OF HYPERTENSION AMONG ADULT POPULATION IN SLUMS OF WEST DELHI

Objective: The present study was conducted to assess the prevalence of hypertension in adult population residing in slums of West Delhi.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adult population of 18-59 years residing in urban slums of West Delhi. Blood pressure was measured using digital machine (OMRON). The data obtained were analyzed for percent prevalence, mean, standard deviation, and median. Joint National Committee (JNC)on prevention, detection, evaluation, and treatment of high blood pressure (JNC)VI and JNC VII criteria were used to classify hypertension.Results: The overall prevalence of hypertension was 25.3%. The prevalence was higher (27.9%)in males than females (22.8%)and also in the age group 46-59 years (43.0%)as compared to 18-45 years (19.8%). The overall prevalence of prehypertension, Stage I and Stage II hypertension, respectively, was 35.2%, 16.1% and 9.2%.Conclusion: A one-fourth of the adult population is hypertensive. Early diagnosis and treatment are advisable, besides awareness about dietary and lifestyle modification.