Factores de riesgo para desarrollar hipertensión arterial en adultos de la zona urbana del cantón Cañar - Ecuador, en el periodo marzo - agosto 2025

Abstract

Background: Hypertension (HTN) is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and affects approximately 30–40% of adults in Ecuador. Therefore, the early identification of modifiable risk factors (physical inactivity, obesity, dietary habits, and alcohol and tobacco use) and non-modifiable risk factors (age and family history) is a public health priority. Objective: To determine the risk factors associated with the development of HTN in adults in the urban area of the Canton of Cañar from March to August 2025. Methodology: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, and correlational study was conducted among 369 adults aged 19–64 years, selected through stratified sampling. A structured questionnaire was administered, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the chi-square test, and Spearman's rank correlation. Results: HTN was significantly associated with family history (p = 0.007), alcohol consumption (χ² = 65.1; p < 0.001), and frequent consumption of ultra-processed foods (χ² = 6.24; p < 0.001), whereas physical activity showed a protective effect (p = 0.005). No significant association was found with tobacco use. Conclusions: In the urban adult population of Cañar, HTN is primarily associated with family history, an inadequate diet, physical inactivity, and alcohol consumption, highlighting the need for health education programs and the promotion of healthy lifestyles focused on these factors. Keywords: adult, epidemiology, lifestyle, risk factors, hypertension