Prevalence of hypertension and its associated factors among rural residents in Chongqing

Objective To understand the prevalence of hypertension in rural residents of Chongqing, and thus provide the advise for controlling the hypertension and comprehensive prevention of chronic disease. Methods Data of chronic diseases (e.g. hypertension) in the farmers of Chongqing were collected through questionnaire survey and physical examination. Results 1 528 subjects were examined. The percentage of subjects with hypertension was 39.6% (male, 38.9% ; female, 40.1%), and the average age was 51.3±13.9. 95.5% of the subjects had the education background of junior middle school or below. 85.4% of the subjects were married or cohabiting. Over 50% of the respondents like to eat pickle and kimchi. 83% of the respondents consumed fresh fruit less than 7 times a week. The percentage of respondents having the high and medium strength of recreational activities was 2.6% and 6.7%, respectively. Age, marital status, the status of hypertension of their parents, and body mass index level are the independent factors of hypertension. Conclusion Residents living in the rural areas of Chongqing are at a higher risk of having hypertension. Living style and the prevention measure should be improved. Reducing exposure to the risk factors and the promotion of health education may reduce the incidence of hypertension.