Comparative study : frequency of hypertension between Malta and Buza, Tanzania

Abstract

Introduction: Worldwide prevalence of hypertension (HT) in established market economy countries is males 37.4% and females 37.2%.

Aim: To identify the frequency of HT in sample populations of Malta and Buza, Tanzania. To look at gender differences, the rate of previous knowledge of diagnosis and compliance to medication.

Methods: Comparative cross-sectional population based survey calculating the frequency of HT of a selected sample of the Maltese population and a sample of people from a primary care medical clinic in Buza. Both samples were statistically matched and compared.

Results: Frequency of hypertension in the Malta sample 32.8% (M : F 32.9: 32.9), and Buza sample 48.4% (M : F 47.7:48.9), compliance rate Malta: 48%, Buza: 8%. Frequency of stage II and malignant HT were significantly more prevalent in the Buza population. The frequency of HT increased with age.

Conclusions: Prevalence of examined HT in the Malta sample was higher than the self- reported survey carried out in 2008, but still lower than the Buza sample and lower than average reported in established market economy countries. Education and awareness of HT will increase lifestyle changes and further reduce the frequency of HT and also increase the compliance rates in both populations. Hypertension awareness and readily available treatment is a much needed public health service, one which is cheap, easy to offer and greatly improves quality of life.