To determine the prevalence of hypertension and its lifestyle risk factors in Amhara Region of Debre Birehan Town among Zonal Civil Servants, Ethiopia

Abstract Background: Hypertension is defined as arterial blood pressure that exceeds 140/90mmhg. Hypertension is one of the most common disease afflicting humans throughout the world. The main objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of hypertension and its risk factors among Debre Berhan Zonal sector civil servants. Methods: Cross sectional systematic random sampling study were conducted on civil servants of Debre Berhan Zonal sectors by taking a total sample size of 264. And physical measurement based data were collected by investigators through structured and pretested interview administered questionnaire. Results: A total of 259 (98.1%) participants were included in this study. Prevalence of hypertension was 68(26.2%) and undiagnosed hypertension was 34 (13.3%). About 43% of the respondents reported they had never checked their blood pressure within the past 2 years and above. Factors found to be associated with hypertension include: older age, educational status, family history of hypertension, current cigarette smoker and obesity.Conclusions and Recommendations: There was high prevalence of both diagnosed and undiagnosed hypertension. There is an urgent need for strategies and program to prevent and control high blood pressure, and promote healthy lifestyle.