A Cross-Sectional Study of Risk Factors Associated with Hypertension in Heart and Kidney Disease Patients in Sana’a, Yemen

Background:
Hypertension is one of the leading contributors to cardiovascular and renal disease worldwide, and its burden is particularly concerning in low-resource settings such as Yemen. The dual impact of heart disease (HD) and kidney disease (KD) places patients at an even higher risk of adverse outcomes. Despite the high prevalence of hypertension, there remains a gap in understanding the interplay of demographic, clinical, and lifestyle-related risk factors in the Yemeni population.

Objective:
This study aimed to identify factors associated with hypertension among HD and KD patients in Sana’a, thereby providing evidence to guide targeted prevention and management strategies.

Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted between March and August 2024 involving 300 patients (200 men, 100 women) aged 35–70 years. Sociodemographic and clinical data, including age, sex, body weight, smoking history, Qat chewing habits, comorbid diabetes, and adherence to antihypertensive medications, were collected through structured interviews and clinical records. Blood pressure was measured using a standardized sphygmomanometer. Logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for variables associated with hypertension.

Results:
Hypertension was significantly associated with increasing age (OR: 1.08; 95% CI: 1.02–1.11), obesity (OR: 2.42; 95% CI: 1.23–4.75), smoking (OR: 1.88; 95% CI: 1.05–3.35), type 2 diabetes (OR: 2.87; 95% CI: 1.56–4.55), and irregular use of antihypertensive medication (OR: 3.21; 95% CI: 1.45–7.11). Notably, all participants reported regular Qat chewing (100%), reflecting its entrenched cultural presence.

Conclusion:
Age, obesity, smoking, diabetes, and poor medication adherence emerged as major predictors of hypertension among Yemeni HD and KD patients. The universal irregularity in medication use and widespread Qat chewing highlight systemic healthcare challenges and cultural influences. Strengthening adherence support, promoting healthier lifestyles, and improving healthcare delivery are urgently required to reduce hypertension-related complications in this high-risk population.