The Risk Factors for Undiagnosed and Known Hypertension among Malaysians

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: The Risk Factors for Undiagnosed and Known Hypertension among Malaysians
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Ooi Wei Lim, Chen Chen Yong


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: The Risk Factors for Undiagnosed and Known Hypertension among Malaysians

Year: 2019 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2019.26.5.9

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Hypertension is a significant health concern globally, being the leading risk factor for mortality, with 1.5 million fatalities annually in Malaysia alone. Despite implementation of various health campaigns since 1991, the prevalence of hypertension, particularly undiagnosed cases, remains high, with 19.8% of Malaysian adults affected. The early identification of undiagnosed hypertension is crucial for preventing severe complications such as stroke and heart disease. This study aims to analyze the odds ratios of both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors contributing to different levels of hypertension in Malaysia, aiding policymakers in developing effective prevention strategies.

Modifiable Risk Factors

The study highlights that physical inactivity, obesity, and drinking habits are significant modifiable risk factors influencing the likelihood of undiagnosed and known hypertension. Specifically, individuals classified as obese and overweight show markedly higher odds of undiagnosed hypertension (OR = 2.112 and OR = 1.513, respectively) compared to those with a normal weight. Furthermore, current drinkers are more likely to have undiagnosed hypertension, whereas physically inactive respondents face increased odds of both undiagnosed and known hypertension. These findings suggest the need for targeted public health interventions to promote healthier lifestyle choices and increase physical activity, which could significantly reduce hypertension prevalence in Malaysia.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the research underscores the critical role of modifiable risk factors, such as obesity and physical inactivity, in the onset of both undiagnosed and known hypertension. Additionally, age, marital status, and educational level significantly influence hypertension risk. Initiatives aimed at encouraging a more active lifestyle and better dietary habits, especially among vulnerable groups such as the elderly and individuals with lower educational attainment, could be effective strategies for mitigating hypertension in Malaysia. These insights can guide health authorities in tailoring interventions to address this pressing health issue and improve overall community health outcomes.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the aim of the hypertension study in Malaysia?

The study aimed to examine and compare modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors impacting various outcome levels of hypertension in the Malaysian population, especially focusing on undiagnosed and known hypertension.

What data was used for this hypertension research in Malaysia?

The research utilized secondary data from the Fourth National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS IV) conducted in 2011, comprising 24,632 non-institutionalized individuals across Malaysia.

What were significant predictors of undiagnosed hypertension identified in the study?

The study found that obesity, being a current drinker, and lower education levels significantly predicted undiagnosed hypertension, particularly in older respondents above 65 years old.

How did the researchers analyze the data collected in the study?

The researchers used multinomial logistic regression analysis to estimate the odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval, assessing the influence of various risk factors on different outcomes of hypertension.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “The Risk Factors for Undiagnosed and Known Hypertension among Malaysians”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Study (Studying):
The study referred to examines the prevalence and risk factors associated with undiagnosed and known hypertension within a Malaysian context. Results from the Fourth National Health and Morbidity Survey are analyzed to produce insights into modifiable and non-modifiable factors related to hypertension, impacting public health policies and prevention strategies.

2) Table:
The numerous tables within the study summarize data regarding hypertension prevalence, demographic factors, and statistical analyses. They serve not only as a method of organizing complex information but also facilitate easy comparison of results across different populations, showing how various factors correlate with undiagnosed and known hypertension.

3) Education:
Education is identified as a significant non-modifiable risk factor influencing hypertension prevalence. The study highlights the correlation between lower educational levels and higher risk for undiagnosed hypertension, suggesting that education may impact health awareness and access to medical care, underscoring the importance of education in public health interventions.

4) Blood:
Blood pressure measurements are central to diagnosing hypertension. The study notes average systolic and diastolic levels to classify individuals into categories of hypertension, showing how blood pressure serves as a critical health metric that ties directly to risks of cardiovascular diseases and overall mortality.

5) Disease:
Hypertension is termed a disease in the study, emphasizing its status as a significant public health concern. The focus on preventing and managing this condition reflects broader issues of cardiovascular health, as hypertension is a leading risk factor for serious diseases like strokes and heart attacks.

6) Male:
Gender differences are explored in relation to hypertension, with the study examining how males may exhibit different prevalence and risk factors compared to females. This aspect highlights the role of gender in understanding health disparities, essential for tailored health education and interventions.

7) Activity:
Physical activity is highlighted as a modifiable risk factor in the study. The analysis suggests that physical inactivity contributes to the likelihood of having undiagnosed hypertension. Promoting activity is crucial for public health strategies aimed at improving health outcomes and managing hypertension rates.

8) Indian:
The study includes demographic considerations like ethnic background, showcasing comparative analyses across different ethnicities, including Indian respondents. This focus recognizes the influence of cultural factors on health and underscores the need for community-specific health interventions for hypertension management.

9) Cina:
Reference to China in the study draws parallels between its hypertension prevalence and that of Malaysia, suggesting that understanding global trends can inform local health policies. Insights from various international studies, including those in China, enrich the understanding of hypertension risk factors.

10) Rampal:
Rampal is likely a reference to an author whose studies emphasize obesity and lifestyle choices as contributing factors to hypertension. Incorporating relevant literature enhances the study's credibility and contextualizes findings within a broader framework of existing research on hypertension.

11) Suffering:
The term suffering relates to the health burdens associated with hypertension, including the symptoms and complications leading to lower quality of life. The study addresses these burdens, urging public health action to identify and manage individuals at risk, thereby reducing overall suffering in the population.

12) Medicine:
Medicine plays a crucial role in hypertension management. The study references healthcare expenditures, highlighting the financial burden of treating hypertension-induced complications. This reinforces the need for preventative measures within the healthcare system to mitigate the societal impact of hypertensive diseases.

13) Rules:
Rules may refer to guidelines or statistical rules applied in the analysis. Following proper methodologies ensures that the study's findings are reliable and valid, thus upholding the integrity of the research and providing a solid foundation for recommending health interventions.

14) Cutan:
Sudan is mentioned indirectly in demonstrating how hypertension impacts varying global populations, relevant for comparative analyses. Differences in health outcomes based on geography and public health policies emphasize the importance of tailored health strategies to address local health issues effectively.

15) Science (Scientific):
Science underpins the methodology and data analysis techniques applied in the study. Utilizing robust scientific approaches validates the findings and provides a reliable basis for public health recommendations, underscoring the link between scientific research and practical health interventions.

16) Kannan:
Kannan references an author whose work contributes to the understanding of hypertension, particularly in rural contexts. Citing established research reinforces the findings of this study and encourages the development of sound health policies based on robust scientific literature.

17) Diet:
Diet is a significant factor related to hypertension, influencing cardiovascular health. The study examines how dietary habits impact blood pressure levels, highlighting the need for nutritional guidance as part of comprehensive public health education efforts.

18) Puducherry:
Puducherry serves as a geographic point of reference, illustrating hypertension studies within specific locales in India. Including diverse locations for comparison enhances the relevance of findings and shows how environmental and cultural elements can affect hypertension prevalence.

19) Developing:
The term developing highlights the focus on nations like Malaysia that are transitioning economically. These countries face unique healthcare challenges, including the rising prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases such as hypertension, underscoring the importance of focusing health strategies on these contexts.

20) Bharati:
Bharati likely refers to an author whose research contributes to understanding hypertension in different populations, providing comparative insights that help inform the Malaysian context of the study. The collaboration of various researchers reinforces the cross-border relevance of hypertension research.

21) Yamuna:
Yamuna may indicate another author attributed to studies about cardiovascular health in specific regions or populations, facilitating broader comparisons. Understanding contributions from various authors enhances the study's grounding within existing research aiming to tackle hypertension issues.

22) Family:
The concept of family may relate to social determinants of health within the study, emphasizing how family dynamics can influence health behaviors and hypertension risk factors. Educational campaigns focusing on family health can extend the impact of public health interventions.

23) Reason:
Reason discusses the rationale behind the study's focus on identifying risk factors for hypertension and underscores the importance of understanding how these factors can inform targeted interventions. Identifying the 'why' behind research helps guide effective health policy and education.

24) Nandi (Nandin, Namdi):
Nandi likely refers to an author noting vital research contributions related to hypertension or associated risk factors. Citing credible authors ensures the research is supported by well-established findings, strengthening its validity and relevance in addressing public health challenges.

25) India:
India serves as a contrasting demographic reference point in the study. By analyzing hypertension prevalence in Indian respondents and comparing it with Malaysian data, the research highlights the cultural and socio-economic factors impacting health outcomes across different countries.

26) Death:
Death highlights the severe implications of untreated hypertension, as it is a leading contributor to mortality. Emphasizing this aspect in the study underscores the urgency for public health initiatives aimed at preventing hypertension-related deaths through early detection and robust intervention strategies.

27) Mamo:
Mamo indicates another contributor to the body of research related to hypertension, providing empirical support for findings within the current study. Citing multiple authors enhances the credibility and depth of research insights regarding hypertension and its risk factors.

28) Discussion:
The discussion section reflects on the implications of the study's findings, offering interpretations and recommendations based on data analysis. It serves as a platform to connect research results with real-world applications, promoting informed decision-making in public health policy.

29) Observing:
Observing relates to the study's focus on monitoring hypertension factors to identify trends and determine effective intervention strategies. This highlights the study's commitment to an evidence-based approach, informing policymakers about necessary health improvements.

30) Relative:
Relative underscores the importance of comparing different populations regarding their risk factors and prevalence of hypertension. This comparative analysis fosters a deeper understanding of key determinants, allowing healthcare practitioners to address hypertension more strategically across diverse demographics.

31) Account:
Account refers to the study's aim to account for various factors affecting hypertension in its analysis. This methodical approach ensures that the complexity surrounding hypertension is recognized, forging pathways for targeted public health interventions.

32) Cancer:
Cancer is often mentioned alongside hypertension as a critical health concern. Recognizing the interplay between chronic diseases, the study indirectly advocates for comprehensive health approaches that encompass both hypertension management and broader disease prevention strategies.

33) Nature:
Nature likely emphasizes the environmental and situational contexts of data collection informing health insights. Considering the natural and social environments surrounding individuals can illustrate varied health outcomes, aiding in the development of more nuanced health strategies and interventions.

34) Sage:
Sage could refer to the author or publisher relevant to advanced quantitative techniques. Recognizing valuable sources bolsters the study’s methodological rigor, ensuring that data analysis incorporates best practices that lend credibility to overall findings.

35) Salt (Salty):
Salt intake is related to several studies on dietary influences on hypertension. This connection can prompt health initiatives that address salt consumption, advocating for dietary modifications as effective preventive measures against hypertension and associated health risks.

36) Post:
Post may signify a reflection on the outcomes and implications of hypertension studies or interventions. This concept encapsulates the importance of ongoing evaluation and adaptation in health policies, ensuring that the responses to hypertension remain relevant and effective.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘The Risk Factors for Undiagnosed and Known Hypertension among Malaysians’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Age, Physical activity, Public health, Blood-pressure, Educational level, Gender, Occupation, Higher income, Primary education, Significant difference, Age-group, Health science, Body mass index, Metabolic syndrome, Socioeconomic factors, Cross-sectional study, Cardiovascular disease, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, BMI, Type 2 diabetes, Overweight and obesity, Hypertension, Non-communicable disease, Global Burden, Physical Inactivity, Marital Status, PubMed, Google Scholar, Population-based study, Odds ratio, Statistical analyses, Overweight, Epidemiological study, Risk factor, Normal Weight, Demographic factors, Health System, Diagnostic test, Adult population, Cardiovascular disease risk, Hypertensive subjects, Socio Demographic Profile, Prevalence of hypertension, Logistic regression, Residential area, Education Level, Smoking status, Modifiable risk factor, Young adult, Fruit and vegetable consumption, Lifestyle risk factors, Non-modifiable risk factors, Urban residents, Ex-smoker, Health awareness campaign, Cardiovascular disease risk factors, Underweight, Household income, Weight change, Significant predictor, Logistic Support, Reference, Ministry of Health, Epidemiology of hypertension, Urban Community, Hypertensive patient, Dependent variable, Independent variable, Younger age group, Elderly respondents, Socioeconomic determinants, Current smoker, Associated factor, Non-smoker.

Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.

Married couple, Secondary education, Local government, Race, Case of.

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