Prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of hypertension among Ngawa Tibetans in China: a cross-sectional study

Objectives To explore the prevalence, awareness, treatment and control rate of hypertension and analyse the potential social environment factors among Ngawa Tibetans in China. Design This was a cross-sectional observational study. Setting The investigation based on a multistage stratified cluster sampling was conducted in the Ngawa area, Sichuan Province, Southwest China. Tibetan residents were selected by random sampling method from one city and six counties in Ngawa. Methods Basic demographical information, physical activity and blood pressure were collected. In addition, the participants completed the questionnaire. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between the prevalence, awareness, treatment and control rate of hypertension and the potential risk factors. Participants The sample comprised 2228 Ngawa Tibetan residents (age 18-80 years) from September 2018 to June 2019. Results The prevalence rate of hypertension was 24.6%. The control rate was 6.2%, while the awareness rate (32.3%) and treatment rate (21.7%) of hypertension had been significantly improved. Conclusion The prevalence of hypertension among Ngawa Tibetans was high. The awareness and treatment were improved in recent years. But the control rate was low. The government needs to strengthen the basic medical care and health education for Ngawa Tibetans.

Automated summary

The prevalence of hypertension among Ngawa Tibetans in China was 24.6%, with awareness rate at 32.3%, treatment rate at 21.7%, and control rate at 6.2%. While awareness and treatment have improved in recent years, the control rate remains low. The government needs to strengthen basic medical care and health education for this population.