Blood pressure prevalences and levels for a multicultural population in Auckland, New Zealand: results from the Diabetes, Heart and Health Survey 2002/2003

Abstract

Aims: To estimate ethnic-specific raised blood pressure (RBP) prevalences, blood pressure levels, and associations of systolic blood pressure (SBP) in the Auckland region.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey of adults aged between 35-74 years in the Auckland region. There were 1006 Maori, 996 Pacific people (mostly of Samoan, Tongan, Niuean, or Cook Islands origin), and 2021 Others (mainly Europeans).

Results: Approximately 1 in 3 Maori and Pacific people had RBP (defined arbitrarily as greater than and equal to 140/90 mmHg or on blood pressure-lowering treatment), compared to 1 in 5 Others. The prevalences of RBP (adjusted for age and gender) were: Maori 37%, Pacific people 38%, and Others 22%. Maori and Pacific people had higher average systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels than Others (adjusted for age and gender). This difference became non-significant when adjusted for body mass index (BMI). SBP was (on average) higher for: male gender, increased age, increased BMI, no tertiary education, high pulse rate, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, those on current blood pressure-lowering medication. SBP was (on average) lower for current cigarette smokers.

Conclusion: Average blood pressure levels and the prevalences of RBP were higher in Pacific people and Maori compared to Others. BMI was identified as the major modifiable factor.