Psycho-social correlates of hypertension disease

Background and Objective: Research evidence supports the relationship of psychological and demographic factors with hypertension and these variables are strongest predictors of hypertension which are scarcely studied in Pakistan. The present study was carried out to explore the correlation of depression, anxiety, stress and demographic factors with hypertension.

Method: We used correlation research design and a sample of (N = 237), hypertensive patients (N = 137) and their age matched healthy controls (N = 100) was taken from hospitals. Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS) (Lovibond & Lovibond, 1995) was used to assess depression, anxiety and stress.

Results: Results indicated significant positive correlation between depression (χ2MH = 104.18, p < 0.001), anxiety (χ2MH = 78.48, p < 0.001), stress (χ2MH = 110.95, p < 0.001) and overall negative states (χ2MH = 97.43, p < 0.001) with hypertension. Depression (OR = 1.44, p < 0.01), anxiety (OR = 1. 76, p < 0.01) stress (OR = 1.37, p < 0.01), job and dependents, working hours and weight turned out as predictors of hypertension.

Conclusion: Hypertension has significant positive relationship with depression, anxiety, stress and with demographic variables. The findings of the present study will contribute in the existing knowledge of health professionals to enhance public awareness regarding the harmful outcomes of depression, anxiety and stress upon human health.