Abstract:
Hypertension (HPT) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and it is now emerging as a public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa. This study reports on prevalence and its awareness of HPT among traders in Hohoe Municipality (HHM). This was a population-based cross-sectional study carried out in 2015 involving 328 traders (18-65 years) using a random cluster sampling technique. A pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain information on background characteristics, awareness and predictors of HPT. Anthropometric indices, blood pressure and random blood sugar (RBS) were measured following standard procedures. Chi-square was used to determine associations between independent variables and HPT (dependent variable). Means in quantitative variables were determined using t-test. Overall prevalence of HPT including those on treatment was 43.3%. At the time of the survey, HPT prevalence was 28.4%, Pre-hypertension (Pre-HPT) was 33.8% and normal Blood pressure (BP) was 37.8%. Out of the 28.4% of the traders who were aware they have HPT, only 13.1% could control their BP. Also, of the 28.4% traders who had high BP during the survey, 15.3% were not aware that they have hypertension. Increasing age, obesity, overweight, high WHR and marital status of traders were independently associated with HPT. Prevalence of HPT and Pre-HPT was very high among the traders’ population. Uncontrolled and undiagnosed HPT was also very high. Targeted periodic screening and creation of awareness on HPT and Pre-HPT are needed to enhance the prevention and control of HPT
