Elevated Body Mass Index and Waist Circumference Induced Hypertension is not Significantly Reversed by Oral Administration of Antihypertensive Agent

Aims: This study investigated the effects of elevated body mass index and waist circumference on blood pressure control in hypertensive subjects under a specific antihypertensive agent in comparison with normotensive subjects.

Study Design: One factor quasi-experimental design.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry, Ekiti State University, Ado- Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. December, 2014-November, 2015.

Methodology: The research subjects and control subjects between ages 31-60 years both male and female subjects were selected. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were measured using mercury sphygmanometer. The body mass index was calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in metres. While the waist circumference was measured at the level of the iliac crests using a flexible tape and passing along the umbilical level of the unclothed abdomen.

Results: Comparing the body mass index and waist circumference of both untreated and treated hypertensive subjects with the normotensive subjects showed a significant increase (P=0.0001).

Conclusion: Elevated body mass index and waist circumference may be a predisposing factor to high blood pressure and resistant to antihypertensive agents. Reducing body mass index and waist circumference may be a way of enhancing effectiveness of antihypertensive agents.