Risk factors for hypertension among the adult Moroccan population

This study used data from the Moroccan national survey in 2000 to identify the principlerisk factors for hypertension in a representative sample of the population age 20+ years. The riskof hypertension increased steadily with age and was higher among rural residents (OR = 1.42) andthose with diabetes (OR = 1.72). The risk increased with increased body mass index, waist size andhypercholesterolaemia. The risk of hypertension decreased by 36% and 46% respectively for thosewho walked 30–60 min and 60 min daily. Consumption of fish and fresh fruits 1+ times per week wasassociated with a lower risk. Among those with hypertension, only 21.9% were previously diagnosedand 8.8% were under medical treatment.