Gender-specific effects of caste and salt on hypertension in poverty: A population-based study

Background Little is known about the risk of developing hypertension in those living in poverty in rural India. We examined gender and caste influences on risk factors for hypertension in a disadvantaged rural community. Methods In 1479 adults living in 12 hamlets in rural Andhra Pradesh, we measured blood pressure, height, weight, waist and hip girth, and used point-of-care devices to measure blood glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride and haemoglobin levels. Information about lifestyle habits was obtained by questionnaire. Multivariable backward stepwise logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with hypertension (blood pressure >a?? 140/90 mmHg). Results The mean age was 39.7 years; 46.2 were men, 11.4 were hypertensive, 0.8 were obese and 44.4 were underweight (BMI