CLINICAL PROFILE, RISK FACTORS, AND COMPLICATIONS OF ESSENTIAL HYPERTENSION AMONG ADULTS ATTENDING A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL: A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is one of the most common non-communicable diseases and an important risk factor for 
cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and renal morbidity. Early detection, risk factor assessment, and appropriate management 
are essential to prevent long-term complications.
Aim: To evaluate the clinical profile, associated risk factors, complications, and blood pressure control status among adult 
patients with essential hypertension.
Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Medicine during 2012 
among 140 adult patients diagnosed with essential hypertension. Demographic profile, duration of hypertension, family 
history, lifestyle risk factors, body mass index, associated comorbidities, clinical presentation, target organ involvement, 
and treatment status were assessed. Blood pressure was classified according to standard hypertension criteria. Statistical 
analysis was performed using chi-square test. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.