Prevalence, control and risk factors related to hypertension among Moroccan adults: a multicentre study

Background: Hypertension is a leading risk factor for mortality and morbidity. Aims: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and clinical profile of hypertension in a large sample of individuals in Morocco. Methods: This was a multicentre and cross-sectional study conducted on patients consulting primary care physicians in Morocco between 2008 and 2009. Data were collected via a medical examination and a questionnaire covering patient demographics, medical history and cardiovascular risk factors. Results: In total, to 714 individuals attending primary care physicians participated in this study. Mean age was 49.6 +/- 16.3 years. The total prevalence of hypertension was 39.8%. When adjusted for age and sex, the overall prevalence of hypertension was 26.6% (26.3% in men and 28.0% in women). Among patients with history of hypertension, 85.9% of patients were prescribed antihypertensive medication and/or lifestyle and dietary advice. Nevertheless, only 17.1% had controlled hypertension. Conclusions: This study suggests that the prevalence of hypertension in Morocco is high. Hypertension may also be underdiagnosed and ineffectively treated. Efforts to heighten public awareness and control of hypertension should be enhanced in the public primary care services.