Hypertension among Asians and Pacific islanders in California

Abstract

Hypertension is investigated among Asians and Pacific islanders in California. Descriptive rates are provided for four Asian and Pacific islander ethnic-sex-age subgroupings. Overall, Filipinos have rates of hypertension nearly equal to those of American blacks and, in some large demographic categories, have prevalence rates comparable to blacks. Uncontrolled hypertension is shown to be related to overall health levels measured by life expectancy, chronologic age, and relative body weight. Change in dietary patterns toward the adoption of American foods increases both relative body weight and the risk of hypertension. The adjusted rates of hypertension are similar for men and women after the effects of relative body weight, alcohol consumption, and other variables are removed. A psychologic dimension of variables, including excess alcohol intake and proneness to depression and boredom, increases prevalence of high blood pressure. Social support mechanisms such as marriage, religious affiliation, and a large number of friends are associated with lower levels of hypertension. Many predictor variables are analyzed along with reasons for the high prevalence rates of hypertension for Filipinos and low rates for Japanese.