The Incidence and Awareness of Hypertension, among Adults in Ahvaz: A 5‑Year Cohort Study in Southwestern Iran

Background: According to the World Health Organization in 2009, hypertension is responsible for 13% of all deaths. Hypertension can increase the risk of stroke, coronary artery disease, dementia, heart disorder, kidney, and other chronic diseases. In this study, the prevalence and incidence of hypertension and knowledge and awareness of it among adults in Ahvaz are investigated. Methods: This cohort study was carried out on 688 participants in a study on the prevalence of metabolic syndrome investigated in adults in the city of Ahvaz in 2009. In 2014, participants were again recruited. Based on the standard method and disease history, blood pressure, height, and weight were measured, and a demographic information questionnaire was completed through interviews. Results: In this study, 688 individuals over 20 years of age participated with an average age of 42.7 ± 13.3 years, 300 men (43.6%), and 388 women (56.4%). Hypertension incidence was 65/1000 person‑years which included 67.7 and 57.8/1000 person‑years in men and women, respectively. The awareness of patients about hypertension was 51.2% in phase 2 (hypertension new cases). Conclusions: In this study conducted in Ahvaz, the incidence rate of hypertension was 65/1000 person‑years, higher in men than women. Hypertension awareness was 50.5%, 45.1% in men, and 55.1% in women.