Burden and Determinants of Self-Reported High Blood Pressure Among Women of Reproductive Age In Tanzania: Evidence from 2022 Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey

Abstract

Background: High blood pressure, commonly referred to as hypertension, remains a prevalent global health concern characterized by elevated arterial pressure. Its multifactorial etiology involves genetic predisposition, lifestyle factors, and comorbidities, posing significant risks such as cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and kidney diseases. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the burden and determinants of self-reported high blood pressure among women of reproductive age in Tanzania. Methods: We utilized population-based cross-sectional data obtained from the Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey (TDHS) 2022, specifically phase VIII. The analysis involved a weighted sample of 15,254 women aged 15-49 years. The outcome variable was self-reported high blood pressure. Multivariable logistic regression models were employed to examine the independent variables associated with self-reported high blood pressure, and the results were presented as adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The significance level was set at p < 0.05 for all analyses. Results: Overall, the mean age of study participants was 29.3 ± 9.8 years, with a self-reported high blood pressure burden of 6.6% among women of reproductive age in Tanzania. Moreover, increased age correlated with higher odds of high blood pressure compared to women aged 15-19 years. Those with a secondary level of education exhibited a higher likelihood of high blood pressure (aOR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.36-2.28, p < 0.001) in contrast to women with no education. Married (aOR: 1.57, 95% CI: 1.19-2.08, p=0.002) and widowed (aOR: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.11-2.12, p=0.009) individuals were more prone to high blood pressure than those who were never married. Additionally, women in higher wealth brackets showed a significantly elevated risk of high blood pressure compared to those in the poorest wealth group. Giving birth once or twice in the last 5 years reduced the odds by 20% (aOR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.67-0.96, p < 0.001). Conversely, self-reported poor health status and recent visits to health facilities were associated with significantly higher odds of high blood pressure (aOR: 2.87, 95% CI: 1.76-4.67, p < 0.001) and (aOR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.20-1.60, p < 0.001), respectively. Conclusion: This study highlights the substantial burden of high blood pressure among reproductive-age women, urging heightened awareness and proactive screening measures. It unveils intricate factors contributing to elevated blood pressure, suggesting tailored strategies involving lifestyle changes, education, and improved healthcare access. These findings prompt targeted interventions, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to effectively curb this health burden. Keywords: Hypertension, Blood pressure, Noncommunicable diseases, Sub-Saharan Africa, Tanzania