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Abstract

Background: Hypertension, a leading risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and other complications such as stroke, heart failure, and renal impairment, is a growing global health challenge. In rural regions of India and other countries, hypertension remains underreported and undertreated despite its high prevalence. The study aims to estimate the prevalence of hypertension among adults in rural Lahore District and understand the socio-demographic, lifestyle, and health-related factors associated with this condition. Methods: This community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2022 to March 2023. A total of 278 adults aged 25 years and above from rural Lahore Sheikhupura, were included using random sampling. Data were collected through house-to-house surveys using a semi-structured questionnaire that assessed socio-demographic factors, lifestyle behaviors, and co-morbidities. Blood pressure was measured twice, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated using standard procedures. Data were analysed using SPSS for statistical analysis, including the Pearson chi-square test for associations. Results: The overall prevalence of hypertension was found to be 54%, with 28.78% of participants being previously diagnosed and 25.17% newly diagnosed during the study. Hypertension was significantly associated with age (p = 0.000), smoking (p = 0.003), diabetes (p = 0.001), and family history of hypertension (p = 0.031). A majority of the hypertensive participants were on regular medication (85.9%), but 96.25% still had high blood pressure despite treatment. BMI classifications revealed that 23.73% were in Obesity Class I and 18.01% in Obesity Class II, with a strong correlation between obesity and hypertension. Conclusion: Hypertension is highly prevalent in rural Lahore, with several risk factors, such as age, smoking, diabetes, and family history, significantly contributing to its development. The study emphasizes the importance of early detection, consistent medication, and lifestyle modifications in managing hypertension. Public health interventions should focus on screening, lifestyle education, and regular monitoring of blood pressure, particularly in rural populations.