TITLE:
Prevalence of Hypertension among Inmates at Labé Civil Prison
AUTHORS:
Thierno Mamadou Cherif Diallo, Namandian Traore, Ousmane Camara, Sia Marie Ouendeno, Ousmane Soumah, Djenabou Bah, Sambou Oulare, Marie Rose Lamah, Idiatou Balde
KEYWORDS:
Hypertension, Prevalence, Inmates, Labé Civil Prison, Risk Factors, Obesity, Diabetes Mellitus, Guinea
JOURNAL NAME:
World Journal of Cardiovascular Surgery,
Vol.16 No.9,
September
21,
2026
ABSTRACT: Introduction: Hypertension is a major global public health problem because of its high prevalence and its role in the development of cardiovascular, renal, and cerebrovascular diseases. People living in correctional facilities represent a particularly vulnerable population due to the high prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and the specific conditions of incarceration. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hypertension and identify its associated risk factors among inmates at the Labé Civil Prison, Guinea. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the Labé Civil Prison over a three-month period. The study included all inmates who voluntarily agreed to participate. Sociodemographic characteristics, medical history, lifestyle habits, anthropometric measurements, and blood pressure values were collected using a standardized questionnaire. Both quantitative and qualitative variables were analyzed. Results: A total of 302 inmates were included in the study. Among them, 27 (8.90%) were diagnosed with hypertension, defined as a systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg and/or a diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg. The mean age of hypertensive participants was 48.91 ± 12.24 years, ranging from 22 to 69 years. The main risk factors associated with hypertension were diabetes mellitus, obesity, older age, and over weight. Conclusion: Hypertension remains an important public health concern among inmates at the Labé Civil Prison. The prevalence observed in this study highlights the need for systematic screening, early diagnosis, and appropriate management of cardiovascular risk factors in correctional settings in order to prevent hypertension-related complications and improve the health status of this vulnerable population.