| dc.description.abstract | The growing prevalence of obesity is recognized
as one of the most important risk factors for
development of hypertension. This study was
done to identify the relationship between body
mass index, waist to hip ratio and blood pressure
among first year students in University of
Peradeniya. Although there had been studies that
have assessed these parameters and its risk factors
for older adults and the elderly, there is a paucity
of such data among young adults. Knowledge
about these parameters and predisposing risk
factors is vital in the modification of lifestyle and
to enhance quality of life. The study was cross-sectional,
carried out among 646 first year students
in University of Peradeniya. A predesigned and
pretested questionnaire was used to collect data.
Body weight, height, waist and hip circumference
and blood pressure were measured using standard
equipment and procedures. BMI had significant
positive correlation with systolic blood pressure
(SBP) (r=0.383) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP)
(r=0.336) for all subjects (p=0.01). Waist to hip
ratio had positive correlation with SBP (r=0.273)
and DBP (0.175) for males (p=0.01) and positive
correlation with SBP (r=0.109) and DBP (0.118)
for females (0p=0.05). Prevalence of hypertension
among males was 3.15% and 1.41% among
females. Family history of obesity and other
chronic diseases, dietary habits, routine exercise
and sports, sleeping pattern, smoking and alcohol
habits were recognized as associated factors with
obesity and hypertension. BMI and waist to hip
ratio had a significant positive correlation with
systolic and diastolic blood pressures. Biological
and environmental factors were associated with
obesity and hypertension. | en_US |
