Prevalence of Hypertension and Associated Risk Factors Among Young Adults at Saidu Group of Teaching Hospital, Saidu Sharif, Swat: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Hypertension is an emerging public health problem among young adults and a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. To assess the prevalence of hypertension and associated risk factors among young adults aged 18–44 years, and to classify participants into elevated blood pressure, Stage I, and Stage II hypertension categories. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Saidu Group of Teaching Hospital, Saidu Sharif, Swat from January 2025 to January 2026, enrolling 145 participants via convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using IBM SPSS v.27 and MS Excel 2019. Mean age was 34.5±7.0 years; 72.4% were female. Mean systolic and diastolic blood pressures were 145.17±14.08 mmHg and 87.50±8.34 mmHg, respectively. Stage II hypertension was most prevalent (64.1%), followed by Stage I (26.9%) and elevated blood pressure (9.0%). Smoking status, duration, and daily cigarette count were significantly associated with systolic blood pressure (p<0.05). Physical activity showed significant inverse correlations with systolic (r=−0.26, p=0.002) and diastolic blood pressure (r=−0.21, p=0.01). Smoking and physical inactivity are significant modifiable risk factors for hypertension among young adults. Early screening and lifestyle interventions are warranted.