Analysis of Hypertension in Peru: Prevalence, Associated Factors, Knowledge, Management and Control, 2014-2022

IntroductionHypertension (HTN), prehypertension, and High Blood Pressure (HBP) represent a chronic medical condition of growing global concern. Highlighting the importance of Awareness, medication, and Control of HTN is essential. A significant proportion of hypertensive patients are unaware of their condition, hindering proper and early treatment. Among those diagnosed, not all receive or follow pharmacological treatment, and an even smaller percentage achieves effective blood pressure control. ObjectiveThe main objectives include determining the prevalence, trends, and associated factors of HTN, as well as investigating prehypertension and the variability in HBP levels during the same period. Special attention will be given to self-reported, medicated, and Controlled hypertension, analyzing its evolution and associated factors. MethodsWe conducted an analytical cross-sectional study using the National Survey of Demographic and Family Health database between 2014 and 2022. Our study included individuals aged 18 years and older, as the definitions of HTN apply to people from this age onwards. ResultsThe study revealed an overall HTN, prehypertension, and HBP prevalence of 20.76%, 33.44%, and 33.44%, respectively, with annual variations. An increasing trend in the prevalence of known, medicated, and controlled HTN was observed, with factors such as gender, age, educational level, and geographical region significantly influencing it. ConclusionsThe investigation into HTN in Peru revealed an expanding occurrence of HTN, prehypertension, and HBP, emphasizing the necessity for early identification, suitable treatment, and effective management of HTN. A significant gap is observed between the conditions awareness and effective management, highlighting the urgent need for public health strategies that address both the prevention and treatment of HTN in Peru.