What is the clinical evidence from this study?

Study design: Cross-Sectional. Population: University employees aged 18-older years at Kampala International University Western Campus, Uganda, including medical, biomedical, administrative staff (n=232). Primary outcome: Prevalence of hypertension defined as systolic BP ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic BP ≥90 mmHg.

What question did this study set out to answer?

This study aims to assess the prevalence of hypertension and its risk factors among staff at Kampala International University.

February 26, 2026Open Access

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hypertension and Associated Factors

Key Result

Among Kampala International University staff, 5.6% were hypertensive with highest prevalence in males aged ≥45, while 56.8% were non-hypertensive, and 37.5% were unaware of their status.

Key Points

This study aims to assess the prevalence of hypertension and its risk factors among staff at Kampala International University.
Conducted a cross-sectional survey among 232 randomly selected KIU staff.
Utilized a structured questionnaire focusing on socio-demographic characteristics and lifestyle.
Performed blood pressure measurements using an Omron digital BP monitor.
Analyzed data using SPSS with frequencies, percentages, and binary logistic regression.
High salt intake from processed foods was identified as a significant risk factor.
High alcohol consumption and smoking were also linked to increased hypertension prevalence.
The highest prevalence occurred in respondents aged 25-34 years.
Promoting physical activities and healthier dietary choices could help reduce hypertension.

Study Design

Type

Cross-Sectional (n=232)

Randomization

Random selection among consenting staff

Multicenter

Structured PICO

Population

232 staff members at Kampala International University (KIU), Uganda, including medical doctors, biomedical staff, and administrative staff.

Outcome

Prevalence of hypertension and associated risk factors

High salt intake, alcohol consumption, and smoking are key risk factors for hypertension among young adult university staff in Uganda, highlighting the need for targeted lifestyle interventions.

Limitations

Cross-sectional design limits causal inference.
Self-reported data on lifestyle factors and hypertension awareness may introduce bias.
Relatively small sample size from one university limits generalizability.
No longitudinal follow-up to assess incidence or progression of hypertension.

Abstract

Background Hypertension (HTN) is the most prevalent preventable risk factor that causes a significant socioeconomic burden associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and is the single most common cause of heart failure and myocardial infarction. Sub-Saharan countries, including Uganda, are still among the worst hit in terms of CVD mortality rates due to hypertension. More than 15 million global disability-adjusted life-years in sub-Saharan Africa are attributable to HTN. Method This was a cross-sectional study conducted among Kampala International University (KIU) staff. A total of 232 KIU staff members were selected randomly from among those who consented, including medical doctors, biomedical staff, and administration staff. The questionnaire was structured into three parts: socio-demographic characteristics, habit and lifestyle, awareness, family history, comorbidities, and clinical assessment. Blood pressure (BP) measurements were performed on the left arm of respondents in a sitting position using the Omron digital BP monitor, and data were entered into Microsoft Excel and exported to SPSS for analyses. Frequencies, percentages, and binary logistic regression were used to identify the risk factors for hypertension (p values

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