Health Profiles and Blood Pressure Patterns among Residents of an Agro-Rural Settlement, South East Nigeria

Abstract

Hypertension is a growing health concern globally, particularly in Nigeria, where its prevalence is increasing in both urban and rural areas. Despite this, there is limited research on agro-rural settlements in South East Nigeria, creating a knowledge gap in understanding the demographic and health profiles, including blood pressure patterns, in these areas. This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State, involving 400 respondents aged 35 and above from five towns. Data collection included structured questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, and blood pressure assessments. The study found that 39.3% of respondents had normal blood pressure levels, 36.8% were hypertensive, and 20.8% were at risk of hypertension. Additionally, 66.0% had a normal BMI, with 23.5% overweight and 3.5% obese. Significant associations were noted between blood pressure status and educational level, weekly exercise frequency, and exercise duration. The study emphasizes the need for targeted public health interventions addressing education, physical activity, and dietary habits to mitigate the rising burden of hypertension in agro-rural populations in Southeastern Nigeria.