Prevalence and Predictors of Elevated Blood Pressure in University Students

*Corresponding Author: Dr. Huidrom Suraj Singh
Associate Professor, Department of Anthropology, Manipur University, Imphal – 795003
Email:  huidromsurajsingh@gmail.com

KEYWORDS undiagnosed hypertension, lifestyles, university students

ABSTRACT
Background: Hypertension, a major risk factor for non-communicable disease, is increasingly becoming a public health concern, not only among older adults but also among younger adult populations. In India, the prevalence of hypertension among young adults is reported to be 11.2%, which is higher than that in other developed countries. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of hypertension and its associated risk factors among university students. 
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 104 students selected by random sampling. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule based on modified WHO STEPS Q-by-Q Guide questions for Non-communicable Disease Risk Factors Surveillance. Anthropometric measurements, including height, weight, waist circumference, hip circumference, and blood pressure (BP), were recorded. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS (Version 21).
Results: The prevalence of hypertension was 20.18%, with 28.84% prehypertensive cases. Hypertension was significantly more prevalent among males than females (p < 0.0001). The risk factors for hypertension identified in the study include smoking (OR = 3.45, CI 1.16-10.29, p=0.028), alcohol consumption (OR = 3.28, CI 1.22-8.78, p=0.015), obesity (OR = 4.27, CI 1.56-11.71, p=0.01), and high WHtR (OR = 4.50, CI 1.65-12.22, p=0.005).
Conclusion: The study revealed a high prevalence of hypertension and undiagnosed hypertensive cases among the Manipur University students. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and high WHtR were found to be significant predictors of hypertension. Early screening and preventive interventions are essential to lessen the burden of future health complications among young adults..

Sapam Rebecca¹, Thangjam Vijaykumar Singh¹, Huidrom Suraj Singh²*

¹MSc Student, Department of Anthropology, Manipur University, Imphal – 795003
²Associate Professor, Department of Anthropology, Manipur University, Imphal – 795003

DOI-DS: 05.2026-56375517
DOI Link :: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/05.2026-56375517/Frontier_Anthropology/2025/14/A6/SR

Frontier Anthropology, 2025, 14: 45-53
©Anthropological Society of Manipur

Original Article

Manuscript Timeline
Submitted: August 30, 2025
Accepted: December 29, 2025
Published: January 29, 2026