TITLE:
Prehypertension and Its Associated Factors among Adults in Kisangani (DR Congo): A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
AUTHORS:
Ossinga Bassandja, Atoba Bokele, Kayembe Tshilumba, Batina Agasa
KEYWORDS:
Prevalence, Prehypertension, Associated Factors, Adult, Kisangani
JOURNAL NAME:
World Journal of Cardiovascular Diseases,
Vol.15 No.2,
February
25,
2025
ABSTRACT: This cross-sectional study investigates the prevalence of prehypertension (PHTN) and its associated factors among adults in Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Using a modified WHO-STEPS questionnaire with a sample of 422 participants, the study found a PHTN prevalence of 33.8%. Multivariable analysis revealed significant associations between PHTN and older age, male sex, obesity, family history of hypertension and diabetes, stress, hypercholesterolemia, low physical activity, daily smoking, and alcohol consumption. The study highlights the need for primary prevention strategies targeting these modifiable risk factors to reduce the burden of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases in Kisangani.