Publication: Determinants of Hypertension among Middle-aged and Elderly Populations: A Study from Myanmar
Date
2025
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kathmandu University
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background
Hypertension is a growing global health concern, particularly in low- and middle-
income 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.
KEY WORDS
Cross-sectional study, Hypertension, Myanmar
Description
Htike KM, Thammasarn K, Mahato RK
Faculty of Public Health
Khon Kaen University
Khon Kaen, Thailand
Keywords
Cross-sectional study, Hypertension, Myanmar