RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN OBESITY, HYPERTENSION, AND AGING IN FIVE LOCALITIES OF WEST CAMEROON

Objectives: This study aims to examine the relationship between obesity, hypertension, and aging in individuals aged 50 years and above in the West Cameroon region. Methods: A total of 768 participants aged 50 and above were included in the study, recruited from five localities in West Cameroon (Bafang, Bafoussam, Baham, Bandjoun, and Dschang). Blood pressure was measured using a sphygmomanometer, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Obesity was classified according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria, and systolic blood pressure was categorized into seven levels ranging from optimal to severe hypertension. The data were analyzed to assess the correlations between age, sex, locality, and these two risk factors. Results: A total of 22.5% of participants had optimal systolic blood pressure, while 22.4% presented mild hypertension. Women over the age of 70 were the most affected by moderate obesity (17.2%) and severe obesity (33.3%). Severe hypertension was more prevalent in Dschang and Bandjoun, particularly among individuals suffering from obesity. Conclusion: The findings highlight a significant correlation between obesity, hypertension, and aging, underscoring the need for increased monitoring and targeted interventions. Proactive management of obesity and hypertension is essential to prevent cardiovascular complications in the aging population of this region.