The social determinants of hypertension prevalence and awareness in urban poor communities in Accra, Ghana

Raphael B. Awuah, University of Ghana
Ama de-Graft Aikins, University of Ghana

An important advancement in hypertension research over the last few decades has been the identification of modifiable risk factors associated with hypertension prevalence. Despite these advances, the prevalence of hypertension has persisted. This has spurred efforts to study how social phenomenon determines hypertension. This study sought to establish social (and demographic) factors that predict hypertension prevalence in urban poor areas in Accra; and to establish social variables that have an association with hypertension awareness. Study participants had blood pressure measurements taken after being interviewed. Results of the regression model indicated that age, education, place of residence and current work status predicted hypertension; after adjusting for lifestyle factors. Results also showed that place of residence, sex and age had a statistically significant association with hypertension awareness. The results from this study can assist stakeholders in the health sector in taking a holistic approach to tackle the issue of hypertension.