Hypertension in young adults: BMI, genetic and physical in-activity predictors in a university students in Indonesia

Study Program of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas ‘Aisyiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

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Abstract

Hypertension is increasingly affecting young adults worldwide, including university students experiencing lifestyle transitions and psychological stress. However, evidence on hypertension prevalence and related risk factors among Indonesian university populations remains limited. This study aimed to investigate hypertension prevalence and associated risk determinants among students in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 students aged 15-24 years at Universitas 'Aisyiyah Yogyakarta using cluster sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires covering socio-demographic characteristics, family health history, and lifestyle behaviours. Physical activity was measured using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ). Blood pressure was assessed using a validated digital sphygmomanometer, and body mass index was calculated from anthropometric measurements. Statistical analyses included descriptive analysis, Kendall Tau correlations, and multivariate logistic regression at a = 0.005. Hypertension prevalence was 38%, predominantly stage I. Significant associations were identified with family history of hypertension (p = 0.001) and insufficient physical activity (p = 0.003), while demographic factors showed no correlation. Logistic regression indicated genetic predisposition (OR = 1.493) and low physical activity (OR = 1.784) as independent predictors. These findings highlight the need for targeted campus-based health interventions promoting lifestyle modification to reduce early cardiovascular risk.