correlation between blood pressure, blood glucose and body mass index: Analysis of a community-based survey in western Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Blood pressure, blood glucose and body mass index are important metabolic parameters associated with hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, nutritional status and other chronic diseases. The correlation between these parameters remains unclear among adults in western Ethiopia. Hence, this study examined the correlation between systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), blood glucose and body mass index (BMI) among adults in western Ethiopia.

Methods: Secondary data collected through a descriptive, community-based survey conducted between 1 July and 15 September 2024. Data from 3908 participants from East, West, Qellem, and Horo Guduru Wollega administrative zones were included. Descriptive analysis of frequency, mean, and standard deviation was performed. Pearson correlation was computed to examine the relationship between SBP, DBP, blood glucose, and body mass index. ANOVA was done to compare the means of BMI and systolic and diastolic BP. In all tests, a p-value less than 0.05 indicates a statistically significant.

Results: The analysis was performed on the data of 3,908 participants. The study found that there was a positive correlation between SBP, DBP, and body mass index. Overweight and obesity contributed to the higher SBP and DBP. Diastolic blood pressure positively correlated with blood glucose; however, SBP did not. There was no significant variation in SBP and DBP across residency.

Conclusion: Nearly 1 out of 5 had SBP of 140 or higher, and more than 1 out of 10 had DBP of 90 or higher. The correlation between SBP, DBP and BMI was positive. Nearly half of the participants had a healthy weight. Being overweight and obese increases the risk of SBP and DBP. A stepwise survey is warranted to establish the correlation between these parameters.