Prevalence of hypertension and diabetes in residents from Lima and Callao, Peru

Abstract

Objectives. To determine the prevalence of hypertension and diabetes in residents of districts in metropolitan Lima and Callao, Peru. Materials and methods. This was a cross-sectional study conducted during September 2006 in people aged 15 years and older, residing in metropolitan Lima and Callao. Participants were selected using a sample of “conglomerados” (neighborhoods) in three stages. Standardized procedures were used to measure weight, height, waist circumference, blood pressure and blood glucose levels. Univariate, bivariate and logistic regression analysis were performed to estimate odds ratios (OR) and their respective confidence intervals at 95%. Results. We enrolled 1,771 subjects; the mean age was 39.5 ± 16.5 years. 62% were women. 19.5% (95% CI 17.6-21.4) were obese, 15.8% (95% CI 14.1-17.6) had hypertension and 3.9% (95% CI: 3.0-4.8) had diabetes. Obesity was associated with a greater likelihood of having hypertension (OR 2.15, 95% CI 1.57-2.94) and diabetes (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.02-3.80). Conclusions. The results of this study in a representative sample of residents in Lima and Callao showed high prevalences of hypertension and obesity and a moderate prevalence of diabetes. These results can be used as a reference for public health interventions and to monitor their impact.