Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular diseases are more common in developing countries, especially in younger age group. Young adults are considered as the healthiest population inevitably adding to the growth of the nation. Obesity and hypertension are the major cause for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Aim and
Objective: This study aims to estimate the prevalence of pre-hypertensives in young adults.
Materials and Methods: A total of 385 healthy volunteers were randomly selected between 18 and 35 years of age in both genders. Persons with known hypertension, diabetes mellitus, endocrinological disorders and on drugs for any illness were excluded from the study. Anthropometric measurements and basal blood pressure (BP) were recorded.
Results: The prevalence of prehypertension (systolic BP [SBP]: 120–139 mmHg and diastolic BP [DBP]: 80–89 mmHg) was 25.45%. The difference between the SBP, DBP, and the body mass index (BMI) between the two genders is found to be significant. As the age increases, SBP, DBP, and BMI increase significantly. There is a strong association between BP and BMI. Conclusion: This study shows that one-fourth of young adults were pre-hypertensive (25.45%). Individual with parental history of hypertension and those with no physical activity are more prone to become hypertensive in future. As their BP strongly correlates to BMI, lifestyle modification will play crucial role in management.