Hypertension Research in Northeast India: A Systematic Review

*Corresponding Author: Sanjenbam Yaiphaba Meitei
Associate Professor, Department of Anthropology, Manipur University, Imphal – 795003
Email: yaiphabameitei@manipuruniv.ac.in

KEYWORDS Hypertension, Northeast India, Systematic Review, Prevalence, Risk Factors

ABSTRACT
Background: Hypertension is a significant public health concern all over the world, particularly in low and middle-income countries like India, where control and awareness remain low. Because of its distinctive sociocultural and lifestyle patterns, Northeast India, which is home to diverse indigenous communities, offers a unique environment for comprehending the prevalence and factors of hypertension. The present study attempts to review the trend of hypertension research in Northeast India, with an emphasis on the prevalence, lifestyle-based risk factors, and anthropometric determinants of hypertension. 
Methods: This systematic review covers 19 relevant studies conducted throughout the Northeastern states, after a comprehensive article search using the keywords ‘Hypertension’, ‘Northeast India’, ‘Determinants’, ‘Blood Pressure’, and ‘Risk factors.’ Only original studies conducted in the adult population and published from 2000 onwards in peer-reviewed journals were included. The collected research articles were thematically analysed to explain the objectivity of the review.
Results: Based on parameters such as age, gender, body mass index (BMI), urbanisation, sedentary lifestyle, excessive salt intake, and alcohol and tobacco use, the results show that the prevalence of hypertension in the area varies significantly, ranging from 11.97% to over 33%. There are apparent differences between rural and urban areas, with males and urban populations at higher risk. Numerous studies point to physical inactivity and obesity as powerful indicators of hypertension. High blood pressure can also be a result of cultural customs, such as drinking salty tea. Adolescent hypertension, in particular, is becoming a more serious health concern that calls for prompt treatment.
Conclusion: The study emphasises the necessity of region-specific public health policies and initiatives that focus on health education, early detection, and lifestyle changes. More meta-analytic studies are necessary to guide targeted hypertension care, given the region’s ethnic and environmental diversity. Furthermore, this study emphasises the importance of a holistic approach involving stakeholders to mitigate the growing burden of hypertension and enhance cardiovascular health outcomes in Northeast India.

Aheibam Robertson Singh¹ Malvika Yumnam¹ & Sanjenbam Yaiphaba Meitei²*

¹Research Scholar, Department of Anthropology, Manipur University, Imphal – 795003
²Associate Professor, Department of Anthropology, Manipur University, Imphal – 795003

DOI-DS: 01.2026-28111149
DOI Link :: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/01.2026-28111149/Frontier_Anthropology/2025/14/A5/ARS

Frontier Anthropology, 2025, 14: 31-43
©Anthropological Society of Manipur

Review Article

Manuscript Timeline
Submitted: August 10, 2025
Accepted: December 05, 2025
Published: January 16, 2026