Keywords

cardiovascular disease, HIV, hypertension, sub-Saharan Africa

 

Authors

  1. Badru, Oluwaseun MSPH, BPT

Abstract

Abstract: The estimated number of people living with HIV (PLWH) globally in 2018 was 38 million, with sub-Saharan Africa accounting for 70%. Antiretroviral therapy has reduced morbidity among PLWH and has resulted in HIV now being considered a manageable chronic disease rather than a fatal one. The increase in the survival rate of PLWH has led to the emergence of chronic diseases, especially hypertension. The study aimed to assess the prevalence and predictive factors associated with hypertension among PLWH in Kebbi State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study was adopted. The blood pressure of 301 PLWH was measured with an automated sphygmomanometer device. The median age of the respondents was 37 years. Females accounted for 61% of the respondents, and the majority were married (55.1%). The prevalence of hypertension was 17%. Older age, lack of exercise, and increasing weight were identified as the predictive factors of hypertension.