Comparative study of the frequency of hypertension in a primary care setting in Buza, Tanzania and Malta

Abstract

Introduction: Worldwide prevalence of hypertension (HT) in established market economy countries is estimated at 37.4% for males and 37.2% for females. Aim: To identify the frequency of HT in sample populations of Malta and Buza, Tanzania, looking specifically at gender differences, the rate of previous diagnosis and compliance to medication. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional population-based survey to calculate the frequency of hypertension of a sample of the Maltese population reviewed in 2010 and a sample of people reviewed in a primary care medical clinic Buza in that same year. Both samples were statistically matched and compared. Results: Frequency of HT in the Maltese sample was 32.8% (M:F - 32.8:32.8), and compliance rate was 48%. The frequency of HT in the Buza sample was 48.4% (M:F - 47.7:48.9) and the compliance rate was 8%. Frequency of stage II and malignant HT were significantly more prevalent in the Buza population. The frequency of HT increased with age in both populations studied. Conclusions: Prevalence of examined HT in the Maltese sample was higher than the self-reported survey carried out in 2008, but still lower than the Buza sample and within range of the established market economy countries. Education and awareness of HT will increase lifestyle changes and further reduce the frequency of HT and increase the compliance rates in both populations. Hypertension awareness and readily available treatment is a much needed public health service. Furthermore, it is cheap, easy to offer and significantly improves quality of life.