Abstract

Introduction/Objective
Prehypertension (defined as systolic pressure of 120–139 mmHg or diastolic pressure of 80–89 mmHg) may impose a substantial burden and future public health challenge. Prehypertension is associated with a high risk of progression to hypertension and subsequent cardiovascular complications, with a 40% five‐years progression rate. In those people, lowering blood pressure helps prevent progression to frank hypertension and subsequent target organ damage. In Iraq, the prevalence of hypertension is about 35.6%, and the blood pressure in one‐third was uncontrolled. To our knowledge, there are no studies addressing prehypertension in Iraq. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of prehypertension among adults in Baghdad/Iraq.

Methods
This cross‐sectional study enrolled 424 adults (18 years old and above) recruited from randomly selected primary healthcare centers distributed throughout the city of Baghdad (capital of Iraq) using a multistage sampling technique. Blood pressure was measured (two readings were taken 10‐min apart, and the mean value for both systolic and diastolic readings was calculated in millimeters of mercury). Those with a history of hypertension, on antihypertensive treatment or pregnant women were excluded from the study.

Results
The prevalence of prehypertension was 31.0%. There was a significant difference in the preHTN group between normal and high waist circumference (32.1% vs. 49.0%, p = 0.04). Predicted mean blood pressure was significantly correlated with both body mass index and waist circumference ( p < 0.001, R‐squared = 0.03). The adjusted multiple logistic regression model shows a significant association of prehypertension with male sex (OR = 2.72, CI = 1.65 to 6.41), high fasting glucose, and high cholesterol level.

Conclusions
Prehypertension (as well as risk factors) is highly prevalent among Iraqi adults. Targeted screening programs, lifestyle modifications, and more focus are needed.