Vol. 6, Issue 2, Part C (2024)

Introduction: Hypertension is a growing public health issue in many developing countries, including Somalia. It is essential to determine the prevalence of hypertension and identify its associated risk factors.
Method: From November 2023 to January 2024, 350 patients were studied prospectively in the cardiology and internal medicine departments of Mogadishu Somali Turkish Training and Research Hospital in Somalia. The data was primarily collected from patients via questionnaires that examined patient demographics and risk factors.
Result: This study examines the demographic and lifestyle characteristics associated with hypertension in a sample population of 320 participants (227 males and 93 females). The analysis included smoking status, khat use, salt intake, physical activity, and body mass index (BMI). Hypertension prevalence increased with age, peaking at 48.4% in the 65-74-year-old group. Among the hypertensive group, there were higher proportions of current smokers, khat users, individuals with uncontrolled salt intake, inadequate physical activity, and obesity. Specifically, 19% of hypertensive participants were current smokers, and 13% were current khat users. Uncontrolled salt intake was reported by 73 hypertensive individuals, and 63 hypertensive participants had inadequate physical activity. Obesity was more prevalent among hypertensive individuals, with 26 participants classified as obese. These findings highlight the significant role of lifestyle factors in hypertension, emphasizing the need for lifestyle modifications, including reduced salt intake, increased physical activity, and weight management, to mitigate hypertension risk. The study underscores the importance of addressing these factors in the management and prevention of hypertension.
Conclusion: Hypertension is an iceberg disease among the top causes of cardiovascular disease and premature death globally, and specifically in the in the African population, where people lack basic life and health infrastructure.