Hypertension Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors in Namibia (2010–2022): A Retrospective Analysis of Publicly Available Data
Abstract:
Hypertension remains a leading contributor to cardiovascular morbidity
and mortality worldwide, with the most significant burden observed in low- and
middle-income countries such as Namibia. Despite multiple national and
international surveys, a consolidated analysis of hypertension prevalence and
associated factors in Namibia over the past decade has been lacking. This study
examined trends in prevalence, associated risk factors, and control levels in
Namibia from 2010 to 2022, using publicly available secondary data sources. A
retrospective analysis was conducted, drawing on national health surveys, World
Health Organization country profiles, Ministry of Health and Social Services
reports, and peer-reviewed publications. Data on prevalence, demographic characteristics,
and biomedical and behavioral risk factors were extracted, summarized, and
analyzed both thematically and quantitatively. Findings indicate that
hypertension prevalence in Namibia has shown a gradual upward trend over the
study period, with notable regional and sex-specific variations. Advancing age,
male sex, urban residence, and higher body mass index emerged as consistent
predictors. In contrast, behavioral risk factors, including alcohol
consumption, tobacco use, sedentary lifestyle, and high salt intake, were
strongly implicated. Furthermore, comorbid conditions such as diabetes mellitus
and dyslipidemia substantially increased the risk of hypertension. Gaps in
healthcare access, underdiagnosis, and poor treatment coverage further exacerbated
the burden, while disparities in data coverage and methodological
inconsistencies across sources limited comparability. Overall, the evidence
demonstrates a concerning increase in hypertension in Namibia, primarily driven
by modifiable lifestyle and structural determinants. Strengthened
community-based screening, targeted health promotion, integration of
non-communicable disease services into primary healthcare, and improved access
to treatment are urgently needed to mitigate this growing public health challenge.
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