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KUMJ | VOL. 23 | NO. 2 | ISSUE 90 | APRIL - JUNE, 2025

Determinants of Hypertension among Middle-aged and Elderly Populations: A Study from Myanmar
Htike KM, Thammasarn K, Mahato RK


Abstract:
Background Hypertension is a growing global health concern, particularly in low- and middleincome countries (LMICs), driven by demographic shifts, urbanization and lifestyle changes. Myanmar has a 30.1% national wide prevalence, however, data on determinants and management remain limited. Objective To assess the prevalence and associated factors of hypertension among middle-aged and elderly populations in Yangon, Myanmar, to inform strategies for prevention and management. Method A cross-sectional study of 512 individuals aged 40 years and older in Yangon, Myanmar, was conducted from May to November 2024 using multistage random sampling. Statistical analyses including the Generalized Linear Mixed Model (GLMM) using logistic regression were performed using STATA 18.0 to identify the factors associated with hypertension. Result The prevalence of hypertension was 27.54% (95% CI: 23.83-31.58), with a higher prevalence among individuals aged ≥60 years. Risk factors included aged ≥60 years (AOR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.27-3.70), palm oil usage (AOR: 3.67, 95% CI: 2.05-6.59), current alcohol consumption (AOR: 2.35, 95% CI: 1.19-4.62), elevated waist circumference (AOR: 2.93, 95% CI: 1.80-4.77), chronic illness (AOR: 3.24, 95% CI: 2.08-5.05) and consuming of plant-based protein for 3–7 days per week (AOR: 1.79, 95% CI: 1.13- 2.83). Conclusion Hypertension is prevalent among middle-aged and elderly adults in Yangon with significant associations identified for age, dietary habits, waist circumference and chronic illness. Interventions focusing on lifestyle modifications, dietary improvements, and targeted health education are essential to mitigate the hypertension burden in this population.
Keyword : Cross-sectional study, Hypertension, Myanmar