Lifestyle And Anthropometric Indices Of Hypertensive Patients In Bichi Local Government Area Kano State

Okeke P.N.1, Ohadoma L.1, Maduforo A.N.2, Ezenwa H.C.3 and Ifeanyi-Uche, U.P.4

1Department of Nutrition and Dietetics Imo State University, Owerri.
2Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
3Department of Vocation Education, Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State.
4Department of Home Economics, Federal College of Education (Technical), Umunze.

Corresponding Author Email: [email protected]  Phone No: +2348033745621

ABSTRACT

Background: Nutrition is a very crucial component in the management of hypertension. The diet of hypertensive patients needs to be critically assessed as well as the lifestyle changes that would encourage maintenance of good blood pressure control.

Objective: The study evaluated the lifestyle and anthropometric indices of hypertensive patients in Bichi Local Government Area, Kano State.

Method: A cross sectional study design was used. A total of 300 subjects were selected by simple random sampling by ballot without replacement. Validated questionnaire was used to collect information from the respondents while weighing scale, height meter and tape were used for anthropometric measurement. The mean, frequency, percentage and standard deviation of the data was obtained. The data was presented in tables and figures.

Result: The result of the study revealed that the average body mass index of the respondents was in the overweight range (28.37±4.35) about 43% were overweight while 37% were obese. It was also discovered that 18% of the subjects’ smoke, 20% consume alcohol daily and 65% of the subjects do not engage in any form of exercise.

Conclusion: The high prevalence of overweight and hypertension among patients (80%) was due to their poor dietary pattern and lifestyle. Therefore, there is need for a lifestyle and dietary modification to help them lose weight, obtain adequate diet and as well maintain a good blood pressure to prevent complications associations associated.