Determinants of Blood Pressure Control among Hypertensive Patients in Nepal: A Cross-Sectional Study

Kamala Timilsena Basnet and Hom Nath Chalise*

Background: Hypertension is a leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide. In Nepal, prevalence is rising, yet determinants of blood pressure (BP) control remain insufficiently understood. This study examined socio-demographic, lifestyle, and clinical factors associated with BP control among hypertensive patients attending a tertiary hospital.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the cardiology outpatient department of Bir Hospital, Kathmandu, between July and August 2018. A total of 360 hypertensive patients, aged ≥18 years with at least one year since diagnosis, were recruited using convenience sampling. Data on socio-demographics, hypertension knowledge, and lifestyle practices were collected using a validated bilingual questionnaire. BP was measured twice, and control was defined as <140/90 mmHg. Logistic regression was applied to identify independent predictors of BP control.

Results: The mean age of participants was 50.8 ± 15.3 years; 59.4% were female, 52.5% resided in rural areas, and 48.9% lived in joint families. Overall, 21.9% (79/360) of participants achieved BP control, while 78.1% (281/360) were uncontrolled. Logistic regression showed that rural residence (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.27–0.84, p = 0.012), alcohol use (OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.13–0.58, p = 0.001), and family history of hypertension (OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.28–0.89, p = 0.021) were associated with poorer control. Conversely, joint family structure (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.10–2.08, p = 0.011) and reported normal salt intake (~5 g/day) (OR 7.69, 95% CI 2.68–22.0, p < 0.001) were positively associated with BP control.

Conclusion: Socio-demographic and lifestyle factors strongly influence BP control in Nepal. Strengthening rural outreach, promoting family-based interventions, and delivering culturally appropriate counseling on alcohol reduction and dietary salt are essential. Future community-based longitudinal studies are recommended to validate these findings and inform national strategies.

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Published on: Jan 30, 2026 Pages: 1-5

Full Text PDF Full Text HTML DOI: 10.17352/aur.000056
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