Prevalence of Hypertension Among Healthcare Workers in Korle- Bu Teaching Hospital : AN Assessment of Work And Lifestyle Related Factors

ABSTRACT

Background: Hypertension or high blood pressure is a major cause of cardiovascular diseases and premature death among adults in the world. In Ghana, it is common knowledge that most people do not consider hypertension a serious health condition, and therefore do not constantly monitor it. Hypertension is commonly known as the “silent killer”. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with hypertension among health workers in Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH). Methods: The study was a cross-sectional, hospital-based study of health care workers in Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. Convenient sampling was used to recruit health care workers for the study, and a structured questionnaire was administered to collect data on sociodemographic profile, dietary habits, physical activities, work schedule and alcohol consumption. Weight, height and blood pressure (SBP and DBP) were measured using standard methods and body mass index (BMI) calculated and categorized by WHO classification. The study also looked at the relationship between socio-demographic factors, dietary habits, lifestyle factors, work schedule, physical inactivity and hypertension among the healthcare workers. To determine associations between hypertension and independent variables, logistic regression analysis was used. Results: The results of the study showed overall prevalence of hypertension to be 26.7%, and prevalence among doctors and nurses as 24.4% and 27.6%. There was a significant association (p0.05) between alcohol consumption, work schedule, dietary habits, age and sex and hypertension. v Conclusion: Hypertension prevalence rate is high among health workers who are important stakeholders in health delivery in Ghana, and Ghana health Service and Korle Bu Teaching Hospital should develop policies to help educate staff on preventive measures.