Factors related to blood pressure measurements of individuals with hypertension following ambulatory treatment

Abstract

This descriptive study with a quantitative approach was performed with 75 individuals with arterial systemic hypertension following ambulatory treatment. The objective was to obtain the blood pressure measurements and relate them to sociodemographic, anthropometric, and life style variables. Data collection was performed between September of 2008 and April of 2009 through individual interviews and measurements. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square, Fisher, ratio and prevalence odds. Results: 52% individuals presented with blood pressure < 140/90 mm Hg; when blood pressure was associated with the studied variables, the prevalence of blood pressure measurements < 140/90 mm Hg was 63.9% among men; 63.6% among non-whites; 58.3% in individuals with a body mass index < 25 Kg/m²; 59.3% among those who did not present with abdominal obesity; 54.2% in sedentary individuals and 61.5% in those who consumed alcoholic beverages. A statistically significant relationship was found between gender and blood pressure measurements.

Descriptors: Hypertension; Risk Factors; Blood Pressure; Life Style; Nursing.