Introduction: In recent years, one of the global health burden is increased blood pressure, hypertension. It is a condition of sustained increase in blood pressure. Prehypertension is a condition of slight increase in normal blood pressure. So, it is a warning sign that develop hypertension in future. If it is diagnosed on time, hypertension can be prevented by modifying lifestyle.

Aim and Objectives: To determine the prevalence of prehypertension and hypertension in adult patients in Kathmandu Medical College, Duwakot, Bhaktapur, Nepal.

Materials and Methods: This is a cross sectional study done in 350 patients at Kathmandu Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Duwakot, Bhaktapur from march 2017 to July 2017.  Blood pressure was measured two times by standard mercury sphygmomanometer and mean was calculated for accuracy. Weight was measured by standard weight scale in kilogram (kg) and height was measured by non-stretchable measuring tape in meter. BMI was calculated by using formula weight in kg divided by height in m².  

Results: Prevalence of prehypertension and stage1 hypertension were found maximum 32.66% and 12(3.43%) respectively even in young (18-27 years) age with normal BMI. Stage 2 hypertension was maximum 4(1.14%) with increased age. Stage 2 hypertension was not seen in 18-27 years age group. P=<0.005 was considered highly significant. There was statistically highly significant association of hypertension with increase age and BMI (P=<0.000).

Conclusion: Prehypertension was common in young age with normal BMI but stage 1 and stage 2 hypertension increased with increase age and BMI.

Keywords: BMI (Body Mass Index), Hypertension, Prehypertension.

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Dr Chandra Kala Rai

Kathmandu Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Bhaktapur, Nepal

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