Comparative Analysis of Cardiometabolic Risk Profiles Among Hypertensive and Normotensive Adults: Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a significant modifiable risk factor for cardiometabolic syndrome, leading to increased morbidity and premature mortality. Understanding the differences in cardiometabolic risk profiles between hypertensive and normotensive adults is essential for effective prevention strategies. OBJECTIVE: This study examined cardiometabolic risk profiles among adults in Johannesburg South, Gauteng Province, South Africa. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 209 adults aged 25 to 65 years who were recruited from 3 Johannesburg townships in Region G. Anthropometric measures (BMI and waist circumference), blood pressure, and biochemical indexes (random glucose, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides) were assessed. Statistical analyses were performed using Stata (version 19), with statistical significance set at P<.05. RESULTS: Hypertension prevalence increased significantly with BMI (P<.001) and waist circumference (P=.003). In multivariable analysis, age and elevated glucose levels were independently associated with hypertension, whereas obesity and central adiposity were not significantly associated after adjustment. CONCLUSIONS: Hypertension was independently associated with advancing age and elevated glucose levels in this population. Although obesity and central adiposity showed significant associations in unadjusted analyses, they were not independently associated with hypertension after adjustment. These findings highlight the importance of early screening and targeted interventions to address cardiometabolic risk in underserved South African communities.