Association of Hypertension with Well-Being: Results from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Study

Introduction It remains unclear how hypertension affects subjective well-being, especially in light of its potential gender-specific impacts. Aim In this study, we aimed to study the association between hypertension and subjective well-being and the potential gender differences in this relationship as well as mediating factors. Methods We use individual-level data from > 1 million Americans who participated in six waves of the nationally representative Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey. We employ descriptive and regression analyses to determine the association between hypertension and subjective well-being while controlling for the usual well-being covariates identified from the related literature. Results Hypertension was negative associated with subjective well-being (p < 0.001) and our results for covariates were in line with the findings in the related literature. The association between hypertension and subjective well-being was only found in males (p < 0.001) but not in females. The relationship is mediated by age and exercising but only for females. Conclusion Hypertension is negatively associated with well-being among males. The diagnosis of hypertension should not only lead to medical treatments but also involve a careful psychological management.