Prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension in Bangladesh: Findings from National Demographic and Health Survey, 2017-2018

Healthy lifestyle knowledge and age at hypertension diagnosis: a primary health care based survey in Bangladesh

This study examined the relationship between knowledge of healthy lifestyles and the age of hypertension diagnosis among hypertensive individuals within Bangladeshi rural population. This cross-section study was conducted among hypertensive adults (18-80 years) in a rural population. We obtained data from 3600 adults with hypertension from 40 randomly selected community pharmacies. We gathered data on demographics, health knowledge, and measured vital signs, including hypertension diagnosis year. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to identify the lifestyle and knowledge factors about hypertension with the age of diagnosis of hypertension. The mean age of hypertension diagnosis was 45.84 years. The mean age of hypertension diagnosis of male participants was higher than female (48.1 vs 44.4 years). Our study found that males and individuals with primary education are more likely to receive a later hypertension diagnosis (odds ratio = 2.32; 95% confidence interval: 1.75-3.10 and odds ratio = 5.96; 95% confidence interval: 3.09-11.48 respectively) for those aged ≥65. The poorest and those lacking physical exercise faced higher odds of later diagnosis (odds ratio = 2.20; 95% confidence interval: 1.53-3.15 and odds ratio = 2.37; 95% confidence interval: 1.78-3.17 respectively). Conversely, a family history of hypertension reduces the odds (odds ratio = 0.38; 95% confidence interval: 0.27-0.55). Increased knowledge of healthy lifestyle factors and engagement with health-related media correlate with later diagnosis, highlighting the influence of education and awareness on hypertension detection age. Our study reveals that knowledge of a healthy lifestyle is associated with the age of hypertension diagnosis. Targeting specific age groups based on health education programs may reduce hypertension-related complications.

Hypertension diagnosis, awareness, treatment, and control in Sri Lankan adults: a nationally representative cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Sri Lanka's health policies prioritize improving hypertension control. The care cascade framework, a valuable tool that has informed hypertension control strategy in many countries, has not been assessed previously in Sri Lanka. This study addresses this gap using data from a nationally representative, longitudinal cohort study, providing a baseline for future monitoring.

METHODS

We analysed data from the 2018-2019 first wave of the Sri Lanka Health and Ageing Study (SLHAS). The extended care cascade included: (i) prevalence, (ii) ever screened, (iii) diagnosis, (iv) awareness, (v) treatment, (vi) adherence, and (vii) control. We used multivariate logistic regression to assess factors associated with attainment of each step, conditional on prevalence and on treatment, and we assessed socioeconomic inequalities using concentration indices. We also compared performance against global estimates, and against regional and middle-income countries.

RESULTS

We included 6,342 participants in the analysis. The weighted prevalence of hypertension was 27.6%. Of those with hypertension, 87% had their blood pressure (BP) ever measured; 53% were diagnosed; 50% were aware of their condition; 44% were taking treatment; and 20% had their blood pressure under control. Females and older adults had better cascade outcomes, but this was driven by higher rates of diagnosis. Diabetes and increased body mass index (BMI) were associated with higher diagnosis rates, but not treatment and control after diagnosis. Education and sector of residence were not associated with disparities, but treatment rates were higher in the most socioeconomic advantaged. Concentration indices confirmed pro-rich inequality across the care cascade from ever screened to treatment and adherence, but control was not unequal, with the data suggesting better control by public providers, whom the poor relied on more.

CONCLUSIONS

Only one in five Sri Lankans with hypertension achieve BP control, with the biggest cascade losses occurring at diagnosis and control after treatment. Our findings point to a substantial influence of providers. Efforts to improve hypertension control in Sri Lanka should focus on increasing detection through opportunistic screening and improving interventions to improve physician control of BP. These findings provide actionable insights for further research and to strengthen hypertension control efforts in Sri Lanka.

Barriers to contraceptive use among people living with diabetes and/or hypertension: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy in individuals with diabetes and/or hypertension, especially when undiagnosed, untreated, or uncontrolled, can result in severe consequences, including maternal and child mortality. Contraception is crucial for the management of pregnancy in individuals with diabetes and/or hypertension. However, the decision-making and experiences related to contraception use among this population in low- and middle-income countries are poorly understood. This study aims to explore the barriers to contraception use among sexually active men and women living with diabetes and/or hypertension.

METHODS

We conducted a qualitative study using the empirical phenomenological approach. We interviewed participants diagnosed with diabetes and/or hypertension, as well as stakeholders involved in providing care to individuals living with at least one of these two conditions and family planning service providers. Semi-structured interview guides were used, and data were collected through four focus group discussions, four in-depth interviews, and ten key informant interviews. All interviews were transcribed and analysed thematically.

RESULTS

People living with diabetes and/or hypertension encounter misunderstandings and various barriers when it comes to using contraception. These experiences were categorised into four main themes and nine sub-themes. The themes identified were: (i) lack of awareness/inadequate knowledge and misunderstanding, (ii) social and religious beliefs, (iii) barriers to available and affordable contraceptives, and (iv) lack of coordination between facilities providing family planning services and treatment and management for diabetes and/or hypertension.

CONCLUSION

Findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the complexities and considerations involved in contraceptive use-related decision-making among individuals with diabetes and/or hypertension. These findings can be used in policymaking and programme development to promote contraceptive use and improve the reproductive health outcomes of this population.

Coastal residency and its association with diagnosed hypertension based on findings from a cross-sectional study in rural Bangladesh

The high prevalence of hypertension in coastal regions poses a significant public health challenge due to factors such as high salt intake, air pollution, poor diets, limited healthcare access, and increased stress levels. However, disparities in diagnosed hypertension between coastal and non-coastal areas in Bangladesh remain underexplored. This study aims to investigate and address the prevalence of diagnosed hypertension among adults in both regions. In 2020-2021, a cross-sectional study was conducted in Bangladesh to assess hypertension prevalence in coastal and non-coastal regions. The study included 3917 adults from six districts, including non-coastal and coastal regions. Prevalence ratios (PRs) were determined using a modified Poisson regression model, to quantify the relationship between hypertension prevalence in the two regions. The study finds that 438 (11.2%) of the 3917 respondents [446 females [11.7%]; mean age 44.73 years] had been diagnosed with hypertension. Notably, adults residing in coastal areas had a higher prevalence of hypertension (13.4%, 95% confidence interval: 11.8%-15.0%) than their non-coastal counterparts (9.5%, 95% CI: 8.3%-10.7%). In coastal areas, the prevalence ranged from 7.8% in the 18-24 age group to 16.4% in the 55 + age group. In non-coastal areas, the prevalence ranged from 2.9% in the 18-24 age group to 15.8% in the 55 + age group. The results of the multivariable analysis revealed that adults from coastal areas were 29% more likely to have hypertension than those in non-coastal areas (aPR:1.29, 95% CI: 1.07-1.56). Moreover, age, physical activity, occupation, and body mass index (BMI) were identified as factors associated with the development of hypertension within these regions. Hypertension is a major health issue across Bangladesh, with coastal regions facing added challenges from high salinity in drinking water. While both coastal and non-coastal areas experience high rates of undiagnosed hypertension, environmental factors unique to coastal areas may intensify the issue. Targeted interventions that account for environmental and socioeconomic factors are essential to addressing this growing health concern in both regions.

Development and validation of a nomogram model for predicting the risk of hypertension in Bangladesh

Background and objectives

Hypertension (HTN) is a leading cause of non-communicable disease in low- and middle-income countries, including Bangladesh. Thus, the objectives of this study were to investigate the associated risk factors for HTN and develop with validate a monogram model for predicting an individual's risk of HTN in Bangladesh.

Materials and methods

This study exploited the latest nationally representative cross-sectional BDHS, 2017-18 data, which consisted of 6569 participants. LASSO and logistic regression (LR) analysis were performed to reduce dimensionality of data, identify the associated risk factors, and develop a nomogram model for predicting HTN risk in the training cohort. The discrimination ability, calibration, and clinical effectiveness of the developed model were evaluated using validation cohort in terms of area under the curve (AUC), calibration plot, decision curve analysis, and clinical impact curve analysis.

Results

The combined results of the LASSO and LR analysis demonstrated that age, sex, division, physical activity, family member, smoking, body mass index, and diabetes were the associated risk factors of HTN. The nomogram model achieved good discrimination ability with AUC of 0.729 (95 % CI: 0.685-0.741) for training and AUC of 0.715 (95 % CI: 0.681-0.729)] for validation cohort and showed strong calibration effects, with good agreement between the actual and predicted probabilities (p-value = 0.231).

Conclusion

The proposed nomogram provided a good predictive performance and can be effectively utilized in clinical settings to accurately diagnose hypertensive patients who are at risk of developing severe HTN at an early stage in Bangladesh.

Prevalance and determinants of hypertension among adults in Somalia using Somalia demographic health survey data, SDHS 2020

BACKGROUND

Hypertension, a major global health concern, continues to affect millions of adults worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The burden of hypertension is particularly pronounced in low- and middle-income countries, where limited healthcare resources and infrastructure pose unique challenges for effective prevention and management. Despite the pressing need for accurate data on hypertension prevalence and determinants, there is a dearth of research focusing on the Somali population. In this study, we aim to fill this critical knowledge gap by analyzing the latest available data from the Somalia Demographic Health Survey (SDHS) conducted in 2020.

METHOD

The SDHS 2020 employed a three-stage stratified cluster sampling design to collect data from 48,796 individuals. Hypertension was measured through survey questions related to chronic diseases. Explanatory variables included age, sex, region, residence, tobacco use, wealth index, marital status, and body mass index (BMI). Statistical analysis involved univariate and multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

The prevalence of hypertension in Somalia was found to be 2.11%, lower than previous studies in Hargeisa and the SLHDS 2020 report. Females had a higher prevalence than males, and urban areas exhibited higher rates compared to rural areas. Age, BMI, region, and wealth index were identified as significant factors associated with hypertension.

DISCUSSION

The study's findings contribute to the understanding of hypertension in the Somali population and can inform public health interventions. The study benefits from its representative sample, multivariate analysis, and comparison with earlier studies. However, limitations include the cross-sectional design, limited information on lifestyle behaviors, and lack of data on treatment and control of hypertension.

CONCLUSION

Hypertension is a public health concern in Somalia, and targeted interventions are needed to reduce its burden. Addressing factors such as age, gender, urban residence, BMI, and wealth index can contribute to hypertension management and control strategies. Future research should consider longitudinal studies and incorporate additional factors for a comprehensive assessment of hypertension etiology and management.

Is gender a factor in socioeconomic disparities in undiagnosed, and untreated hypertension in Bangladesh?

Our objectives were to ascertain the following: (1) the prevalence and socioeconomic distribution of hypertension (HTN), undiagnosed for HTN, and untreated cases of HTN-diagnosed individuals; (2) the relationship between SES and the prevalence of HTN, undiagnosed for HTN, and untreated for HTN; and (3) whether sex moderate this association. Data from the 2017-18 Bangladesh Demographic Health Survey were used. 11,776 participants who were 18 years of age or older responded to our analysis. The age-adjusted prevalence of HTN, undiagnosed for HTN, and untreated cases was 25.1%, 57.2%, and 12.3%. Compared to females, males were less likely to have HTN but more likely to have undiagnosed HTN. People in the rich SES groups had a higher odd of (adjusted odds ratio [aoR] 1.25; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08-3.45) of having HTN compared to those in the poor SES group. When compared to individuals in the poor SES group, those in the rich SES group had lower odds of undiagnosed (aoR 0.57; 95% CI 0.44-0.74) and untreated (aoR 0.56; 95% CI 0.31-0.98) for HTN. Sex moderated the association between SES and HTN prevalence, which showed that men from rich SES were more likely to suffer from HTN than men from poor SES. According to this study, the government and other pertinent stakeholders should concentrate more on developing suitable policy measures to reduce the risk of HTN, particularly for men in rich socioeconomic groups. They should also concentrate on screening and diagnosing HTN in socioeconomically disadvantaged populations, regardless of sex.

Exploration of modern contraceptive methods using patterns among later reproductive-aged women in Bangladesh

BACKGROUND

With the rapid increase in the number of women in their later reproductive years (aged 35 and above) in the present decade, the concern surrounding their contraceptive considerations has reached a critical point of importance. This study aims to examine the trends and determinants of modern contraceptive uptake among later reproductive-aged women in Bangladesh.

METHODS

A total of 17,736 women aged 35 and above were included in the analysis, utilizing data from three consecutives Bangladesh Demographic and Health Surveys conducted in 2011, 2014, and 2017-18. The outcome variable was the uptake of modern contraceptive methods (yes or no). The explanatory variables encompassed survey years, individual characteristics of the women, as well as characteristics of their partners and the community. Multilevel logistic regression model was used to explore the association of the outcome variable with explanatory variables.

RESULTS

We found that approximately 54% of women aged 35 and more do not use modern contraceptive methods, and there have been no significant shifts in their usage observed over the survey years. Compared to women aged 35-39, women aged 40-45 (aOR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.49-0.57) and 45-49 (aOR = 0.24, 0.22-0.26) reported lower likelihoods of modern contraceptive method uptake. Higher education correlated with increased uptake of modern contraceptive methods (112%-142%), while partner's education showed a negative association. Later reproductive-aged women in richer (aOR = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.74-0.94) and richest (aOR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.66-0.88) quintiles reported lower uptake of modern contraceptive methods compared to their counterparts in the poorest quintile. Later reproductive-aged women in Dhaka (aOR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.07-1.38) and Rajshahi (aOR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.19-1.59) regions had higher uptake of modern contraception than those residing in the Barishal division. Modern contraceptive methods uptake was 1.22 times higher among women who reported exposure to mass media and 1.19 times higher among women who reported engagement in paid work compared to among women who reported no exposure to mass media and participation in no formal work, respectively. Modern contraceptive methods uptake was 43% higher (aOR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.32-1.55) in women with more than 2 children compared to those with ≤2 children.

CONCLUSION

The study highlights no significant change in modern contraception uptake among later reproductive-aged women in Bangladesh. This raises concerns about the elevated risk of unintended pregnancies and shorter birth intervals, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address the specific needs and preferences of this demographic.

Residential variations in hypertension prevalence and trends among adults in Bangladesh

INTRODUCTION

Hypertension is a widespread and life-threatening condition globally, with its prevalence increasing rapidly, particularly among adults. This study aims to examine the trend in adult hypertension prevalence and associated risk factors in both urban and rural areas of Bangladesh from 2011 to 2018.

METHODS

Nationally representative cross-sectional data from the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey was used at two time points, 2011 and 2018. In our study, we used a two-step approach for variable selection, combining traditional statistical methods (χ 2 test) with a machine learning algorithm (Boruta algorithm).. This study also employed two different multivariate binary logistic regression models to identify the risk factors that are most closely connected to the presence of hypertension (respectively for urban and rural locations).

RESULTS

According to the study, hypertension has been on the rise in Bangladesh. In 2011, over a third of adults (38.7%) in urban Bangladesh had hypertension, a number that rose by 22.6% in 2017-18. Though rural areas had a lower hypertension prevalence in 2011 (36%), it surged to 64% in 2017-18, surpassing the rate in urban areas. The results of the multivariate analysis showed that age, gender, education, wealth status, area, and survey year had a significant influence on the determinants of hypertension status in connection to place of residence. According to the odds ratio, the prevalence was significantly higher among older respondents, female respondents, wealthy families and higher-educated respondents.

CONCLUSION

A large proportion of Bangladesh's adult population suffers from hypertension. A health education program is required to develop appropriate strategies, including appropriate weight control, appropriate physical activity, and healthier eating habits. Health authorities should take initiatives to spread awareness among people, particularly at an older age.

Enhancing care quality and accessibility through digital technology-supported decentralisation of hypertension and diabetes management: a proof-of-concept study in rural Bangladesh

OBJECTIVE

The critical shortage of healthcare workers, particularly in rural areas, is a major barrier to quality care for non-communicable diseases (NCD) in low-income and middle-income countries. In this proof-of-concept study, we aimed to test a decentralised model for integrated diabetes and hypertension management in rural Bangladesh to improve accessibility and quality of care.

DESIGN AND SETTING

The study is a single-cohort proof-of-concept study. The key interventions comprised shifting screening, routine monitoring and dispensing of medication refills from a doctor-managed subdistrict NCD clinic to non-physician health worker-managed village-level community clinics; a digital care coordination platform was developed for electronic health records, point-of-care support, referral and routine patient follow-up. The study was conducted in the Parbatipur subdistrict, Rangpur Division, Bangladesh.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 624 participants were enrolled in the study (mean (SD) age, 59.5 (12.0); 65.1% female).

OUTCOMES

Changes in blood pressure and blood glucose control, patient retention and patient-visit volume at the NCD clinic and community clinics.

RESULTS

The proportion of patients with uncontrolled blood pressure reduced from 60% at baseline to 26% at the third month of follow-up, a 56% (incidence rate ratio 0.44; 95% CI 0.33 to 0.57) reduction after adjustment for covariates. The proportion of patients with uncontrolled blood glucose decreased from 74% to 43% at the third month of follow-up. Attrition rates immediately after baseline and during the entire study period were 29.1% and 36.2%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The proof-of-concept study highlights the potential for involving lower-level primary care facilities and non-physician health workers to rapidly expand much-needed services to patients with hypertension and diabetes in Bangladesh and in similar global settings. Further investigations are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of decentralised hypertension and diabetes care.

Associations between maternal and infant selenium status and child growth in a birth cohort from Dhaka, Bangladesh

Deficiency of essential trace element, Se, has been implicated in adverse birth outcomes and in child linear growth because of its important role in redox biology and associated antioxidant effects. We used data from a randomised controlled trial conducted among a cohort of pregnant and lactating women in Dhaka, Bangladesh to examine associations between Se biomarkers in whole blood (WBSe), serum and selenoprotein P (SEPP1) in maternal delivery and venous cord (VC) blood. Associations between Se biomarkers, birth weight and infant growth outcomes (age-adjusted length, weight, head circumference and weight-for-length z-scores) at birth, 1 and 2 years of age were examined using regression analyses. WB and serum Se were negatively associated with birth weight (adjusted β, 95 % CI, WBSe delivery: −26·6 (–44·3, −8·9); WBSe VC: −19·6 (–33·0, −6·1)); however, delivery SEPP1 levels (adjusted β: −37·5 (–73·0, −2·0)) and VC blood (adjusted β: 82·3 (30·0, 134·7)) showed inconsistent and opposite associations with birth weight. Positive associations for SEPP1 VC suggest preferential transfer from mother to fetus. We found small associations between infant growth and WBSe VC (length-for-age z-score β, 95 % CI, at birth: −0·05 (–0·1, −0·01)); 12 months (β: −0·05 (–0·08, −0·007)). Weight-for-age z-score also showed weak negative associations with delivery WBSe (at birth: −0·07 (–0·1, −0·02); 12 -months: −0·05 (–0·1, −0·005)) and in WBSe VC (at birth: −0·05 (–0·08, −0·02); 12 months: −0·05 (–0·09, −0·004)). Given the fine balance between essential nutritional and toxic properties of Se, it is possible that WB and serum Se may negatively impact growth outcomes, both in utero and postpartum.

Prevalence and determinants of non-communicable diseases risk factors among reproductive-aged women: Findings from a nationwide survey in Bangladesh

INTRODUCTION

Knowing the risk factors like smoking status, overweight/obesity, and hypertension among women of reproductive age could allow the development of an effective strategy for reducing the burden of non-noncommunicable diseases. We sought to determine the prevalence and determinants of smoking status, overweight/obesity, hypertension, and cluster of these non-noncommunicable diseases risk factors among Bangladeshi women of reproductive age.

METHODS

This study utilized the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS) data from 2017-2018 and analyzed 5,624 women of reproductive age (age 18-49 years). This nationally representative cross-sectional survey utilized a stratified, two-stage sample of households. Poisson regression models with robust error variance were fitted to find the adjusted prevalence ratio (APR) for smoking, overweight/obesity, hypertension, and for the clustering of non-noncommunicable diseases risk factors across demographic variables.

RESULTS

The average age of 5,624 participants was 31 years (SD = 9.1). The prevalence of smoking, overweight/obesity, and hypertension was 9.6%, 31.6%, and 20.3%, respectively. More than one-third of the participants (34.6%) had one non-noncommunicable diseases risk factor, and 12.5% of participants had two non-noncommunicable diseases risk factors. Age, education, wealth index, and geographic location were significantly associated with smoking status, overweight/obesity, and hypertension. Women between 40-49 years had more non-noncommunicable diseases risk factors than 18-29 years aged women (APR: 2.44; 95% CI: 2.22-2.68). Women with no education (APR: 1.15; 95% CI: 1.00-1.33), married (APR: 2.32; 95% CI: 1.78-3.04), and widowed/divorced (APR: 2.14; 95% CI: 1.59-2.89) were more likely to experience multiple non-noncommunicable diseases risk factors. Individuals in the Barishal division, a coastal region (APR: 1.44; 95% CI: 1.28-1.63) were living with a higher number of risk factors for non-noncommunicable diseases than those in the Dhaka division, the capital of the country. Women who belonged to the richest wealth quintile (APR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.60-2.07) were more likely to have the risk factors of non-noncommunicable diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

The study showed that non-noncommunicable diseases risk factors are more prevalent among women from older age group, currently married and widowed/divorced group, and the wealthiest socio-economic group. Women with higher levels of education were more likely to engage in healthy behaviors and found to have less non-noncommunicable diseases risk factors. Overall, the prevalence and determinants of non-noncommunicable diseases risk factors among reproductive women in Bangladesh highlight the need for targeted public health interventions to increase opportunities for physical activity and reduce the use of tobacco, especially the need for immediate interventions in the coastal region.

Prevalence, awareness, and control of hypertension and associated factors among Royal Thai Army personnel in Thailand from 2017 to 2021

Hypertension (HTN) is a potential risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. We aimed to determine the prevalence, awareness, and control of HTN among RTA personnel in Thailand. We conducted a series of cross-sectional studies from 2017 to 2021. HTN was defined by systolic blood pressure (BP) ≥ 140 mmHg or a diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg from a physical health examination, a history of HTN diagnosed by medical personnel, or taking antihypertensive medication. A total of 504,484 participants were included in the present study. The overall HTN prevalence was 29.4%. The prevalence of HTN among males was 30.5%, while it was 17.1% among females. Of the RTA personnel with HTN, 35.9% were aware of their condition. The overall control of HTN among RTA personnel with HTN was 15.8% in 2017 and 17.6% in 2021. Behavioral factors associated with HTN were current smoking, alcohol consumption, and sedentary behavior. A higher BMI was associated with higher HTN prevalence and HTN awareness but less likely to have controllable HTN. Male participants, younger individuals, current alcohol use, and sedentary behavior were associated with a lower prevalence of HTN awareness and controlled HTN. Current tobacco use was also associated with a lower prevalence of HTN awareness.

Diabetes, Hypertension, and Comorbidity among Bangladeshi Adults: Associated Factors and Socio-Economic Inequalities

Diabetes, hypertension, and comorbidity are still crucial public health challenges that Bangladeshis face. Nonetheless, very few studies have been conducted to examine the associated factors, especially the socioeconomic inequalities in diabetes, hypertension, and comorbidity in Bangladesh. This study explored the prevalence of, factors connected with, and socioeconomic inequalities in diabetes, hypertension, and comorbidity among Bangladeshi adults. We used the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS) data set of 2017−2018. A total of 12,136 (weighted) Bangladeshi adults with a mean age of 39.5 years (±16.2) participated in this study. Multilevel (mixed-effect) logistic regression analysis was employed to ascertain the determinants of diabetes, hypertension, and comorbidity, where clusters were considered as a level-2 factor. The concentration curve (CC) and concentration index (CIX) were utilized to investigate the inequalities in diabetes, hypertension, and comorbidity. The weighted prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and comorbidity was 10.04%, 25.70%, and 4.47%, respectively. Age, body mass index, physical activity, household wealth status, and diverse administrative divisions were significantly associated with diabetes, hypertension, and comorbidity among the participants. Moreover, participants’ smoking statuses were associated with hypertension. Women were more prone to hypertension and comorbidity than men. Diabetes (CIX: 0.251, p < 0.001), hypertension (CIX: 0.071, p < 0.001), and comorbidity (CIX: 0.340, p < 0.001) were higher among high household wealth groups. A pro-wealth disparity in diabetes, hypertension, and comorbidity was found. These inequalities in diabetes, hypertension, and comorbidity emphasize the necessity of designing intervention schemes geared towards addressing the rising burden of these diseases.

Hypertension and undiagnosed hypertension among Bangladeshi adults: Identifying prevalence and associated factors using a nationwide survey

Background

Although undiagnosed hypertension (HTN) is a serious concern worldwide, it is less of an importance in Bangladesh, where there is a dearth of research on the subject. So, we aimed to identify the prevalence and associated factors for diagnosed and undiagnosed HTN.

Methods

We analyzed the recent 2017-2018 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey data. We included 11,981 participants aged 18 years and above for the analysis. The prevalence rates of both diagnosed and undiagnosed hypertension were computed for all individuals and subgroups. The influence of socio-demographic, household, and community-related variables on HTN and undiagnosed HTN was investigated using multinomial regression analysis.

Results

The study finds 1,464 (12.2%) of the 11,981 respondents [6,815 females [56.9 %]; mean age 39.4 years] had diagnosed HTN, whereas 1 898 (15.8%) had undiagnosed HTN. The HTN and undiagnosed HTN were significantly prevalent in the elderly, type 2 diabetic (T2DM), and overweight and obese individuals. In terms of residential regions, people from coastal region had a significantly higher prevalence of both HTN (RRR: 1.37; 95% CI: 1.17-1.62) and undiagnosed HTN (RRR: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.17-1.56) compared to those from the central region of Bangladesh.

Conclusions

The high prevalence of undetected hypertension in Bangladesh suggests that screening procedures for the current chronic illness may be inadequate in routine clinical practice. All populations should have access to hypertension screening, but it is especially crucial for the elderly, those with diabetes, those who are overweight or obese, and those from coastal and northern regions of Bangladesh.

Underweight, overweight or obesity, diabetes, and hypertension in Bangladesh, 2004 to 2018

Background and objectives

Bangladesh is experiencing a nutrition transition with an increase in the double burden of malnutrition and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This study sought to: 1) examine trends and differences in underweight, overweight/obesity, hypertension and diabetes by gender, area of residence, and wealth in Bangladesh from 2004 to 2018, 2) assess what factors contributed to changes in these outcomes.

Methods

We used data from five rounds of the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Surveys (n = 76,758 women 15-49y and 10,900 men 18-95y in total). We calculated differences, slope index of inequality (SII) and concentration index (CIX) to examine trends over time and differences in outcomes by wealth and residence. We identified determinants and estimated drivers of changes in outcomes using regression-based decomposition.

Results

Between 2004 and 2018, underweight prevalence decreased in both women (33% to 12%) and men (26% to 18%), whereas overweight/obesity increased (17% to 49% in women and 21% to 34% in men). Hypertension also increased in both women (31% to 44%) and men (19% to 33%) while diabetes changed marginally (11% to 14%). In all years, underweight was concentrated in poorer and rural households while overweight/obesity, diabetes and hypertension were concentrated in wealthier and urban households. Wealth inequity decreased over time for underweight, changed little for overweight/obesity, and increased for hypertension and diabetes among men. Increases in wealth explained 35% to 50% of the reduction in underweight and 30% to 57% of the increase in overweight/obesity.

Conclusion

Our findings imply that double duty actions are required to sustain the decrease in undernutrition and slow the increase in overweight/obesity and NCDs across diverse socioeconomic sections of the population in Bangladesh.

Hypertension control in Kerala, India: a prescription-based study at primary and secondary level health care institutions

Objective

We undertook a prescription-based study to identify the provider and institution-level factors related to achieving guideline-recommended control of hypertension and diabetes mellitus in Kerala, India.

Methods

This cross-sectional study in primary and secondary care hospitals in Kerala included both public and private institutions. One practitioner was selected from each institution. Data on institutional and provider factors were collected using a structured questionnaire. Prescriptions were photographically captured and data on disease status and drugs prescribed were recorded. Factors associated with disease control were identified using binary logistic regression.

Results

Totally 4679 prescriptions were included for analysis. For hypertension-only patients, control levels were 31.5% and was significantly higher in public hospitals (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.96, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.50–2.57). Among patients with diabetes only, diabetes control was seen in 36.6%. When both conditions were present, control was achieved in only 17.0% patients. Being prescribed two or more drugs indicated lower control, whatever the respective condition. Among antihypertensive prescriptions rationality of 26.7% were questioned, such as lack of Renin Angiotensin System (RAS) inhibitor in diabetic hypertensives, dual RAS blockage, and indication for beta-blocker monotherapy.

Conclusions

In this prescription-based study in Kerala, India, a majority of hypertensive patients did not have controlled blood pressure levels, particularly if diabetes coexisted. This has serious implications as Kerala is the state with the highest burden of hypertension in India. Several prescription patterns were of questionable rationality. Further research and actions on rationality of anti-hypertensive prescriptions and barriers to treatment intensification is warranted.

Prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes and the relative importance of its risk factors among adults in Bangladesh: Findings from a nationwide survey

AIM

To estimate the prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes, and to identify the relative importance of risk factors for undiagnosed diabetes among Bangladeshi adults.

METHOD

Data from 11, 421 Bangladeshi adults aged 18 years and older available from the most recent nationally representative Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2017-18 were used. Anthropometric measurements and fasting blood glucose samples were taken as part of the survey. Prevalence estimates of undiagnosed diabetes was age-standardised with direct standarisation, and risk factors were identified using multilevel mix-effects Poisson regression models with robust variance.

RESULTS

The overall age-standardised prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes was 6.0% (95 %CI, 5.5-6.4%) (men: 6.1%, women: 5.9%). Risk factors associated with undiagnosed diabetes were older age, elevated body mass index (BMI), highest wealth quintile, hypertension, and being male. The top two modifiable risk factors contributing over 50% to undiagnosed diabetes were BMI and wealth quintiles.

CONCLUSION

Undiagnosed diabetes affects a substantial proportion of Bangladeshi adults. Since elevated BMI and the highest wealth quintile are strong risk factors, these offer an opportunity for early detection and screening to reduce undiagnosed diabetes in Bangladesh. In addition, wide-reaching awareness campaigns among the general public, clinicians, and policymakers are needed.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Hypertension Among People Aged 45 Years and Over in India: A Sub-national Analysis of the Variation in Performance of Indian States

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the single largest contributor to non-communicable disease (NCD) deaths, with hypertension contributing to a significant proportion of these deaths. This study aims to provide estimates of the prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of hypertension at sub-national levels in India and identifies well and under-performing states with respect to the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. Methods: The study utilises data from the Longitudinal Study of Ageing in India (LASI), a nationally representative survey of more than 72,000 individuals. Age-sex adjusted prevalence rates of self-reported hypertension was calculated using the direct standardisation method. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to assess the association of self-reported hypertension with the various individual co-morbidity, lifestyle, and household factors. Self-reported prevalence was compared with an objective measure of hypertension for each state, and funnel plots were constructed to assess the performance of states. Results: Our findings suggest that the overall prevalence of age-sex adjusted self-reported hypertension was 25.8% in India with significant variation among states. Results based on logistic regression confirm that those individuals who are elderly, obese, belong to a higher socio-economic group and have associated co-morbidities are at increased odds of reporting hypertension. Overall, 4 out of 10 adults over 45 years of age in India are not aware of their hypertensive condition, and of those who are aware, 73% are currently taking medication, and only 10% of these have their hypertension under control. Based on the performance, states were classified into high and low performing categories. States with an increased proportion of population below the poverty line had significantly lower performance with respect to the diagnosis of hypertension, whereas states with higher literacy rates and greater availability of specialist doctors at community health centres (CHCs) had significantly better performance with respect to treatment-seeking behaviour. Conclusion: The findings of this study and its policy implications are discussed. Based on state performance, strategies are proposed in terms selective targeting vs. population-based strategies. High impact states and sub-groups are identified where intense efforts are needed to tackle the growing menace of hypertension in India.