Prevalence And Risk Factors Of Hypertension Among Medical Students At Al-Aleem Medical College, Lahore

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is a major modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and is increasingly detected in young adults, including medical students exposed to academic stress and adverse lifestyle patterns. Early identification of elevated blood pressure in this population is critical to prevent long-term cardiovascular complications. Objective: To determine the prevalence of elevated blood pressure and hypertension and to evaluate associated risk factors among senior MBBS students at Al-Aleem Medical College, Lahore. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 162 fourth- and fifth-year MBBS students using a census approach. Blood pressure was measured using standardized techniques across two separate visits and classified according to American Heart Association criteria. Anthropometric measurements were recorded, and a structured questionnaire assessed smoking status, physical activity, and family history. Associations were analyzed using chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests and multivariable logistic regression; odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported. Results: Overall, 69.8% were normotensive, 19.8% had elevated blood pressure, and 10.5% had hypertension. Abnormal blood pressure (elevated or hypertensive) was present in 30.2% of students. Hypertension was significantly associated with male sex (adjusted OR 4.98; 95% CI: 1.61–15.37), overweight status (adjusted OR 4.21; 95% CI: 1.21–14.62), obesity (adjusted OR 10.88; 95% CI: 2.05–57.73), and smoking (adjusted OR 6.42; 95% CI: 1.27–32.44). Family history and physical activity were not statistically significant predictors. Conclusion: Elevated blood pressure and hypertension are common among senior medical students, with male sex, excess body weight, and smoking emerging as key independent risk factors, underscoring the need for early screening and targeted preventive interventions within medical institutions.