Determinants of self-reported hypertension among women in South Africa: evidence from the population-based survey

Abstract

Background: Hypertension (HTN), characterized by an elevation of blood pressure, is a serious public health chronic condition that significantly raises the risks of heart, brain, kidney, and other diseases. In South Africa, the prevalence of HTN (measured objectively) was reported at 46.0% in females, nonetheless little is known regarding the prevalence and risks factors of self-reported HTN among the same population. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine determinants of self-reported HTN among women in South Africa.

Methods: The study used data obtained from the 2016 South African Demographic and Health Survey. In total, 6,027 women aged ≥ 20 years were analyzed in this study. Self-reported HTN was defined as a case in which an individual has not been clinically diagnosed with this chronic condition by a medical doctor, nurse, or health worker. Multiple logistic regression models were employed to examine the independent factors of self-reported HTN while considering the complex survey design.

Results: Overall, self-reported HTN was reported in 23.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 23.1-24.1) of South African women. Being younger (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.04; 95% CI, 0.03-0.06), never married (aOR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.56-0.85), and not covered by health insurance (aOR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.58-0.95) reduced the odds of self-reported HTN. On the other hand, being black/African (aOR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.17-2.54), perception of being overweight (aOR, 1.72; 95% CI, 1.40-2.11), and perception of having poor health status (aOR, 3.53; 95% CI, 2.53-5.21) and the presence of other comorbidities (aOR, 7.92; 95% CI, 3.63-17.29) increased the odds of self-reported HTN.

Conclusions: Self-reported HTN was largely associated with multiple sociodemographic, health, and lifestyle factors and the presence of other chronic conditions. Health promotion and services aiming at reducing the burden of HTN in South Africa should consider the associated factors reported in this study to ensure healthy aging and quality of life among women.

Keywords: Diabetes mellitus; Hypercholesterolemia; Hypertension; Life style; Obesity; Overweight; Self report; South Africa.