Association of dietary sodium intake and hypertension among older adults in India: Insights from (Study on global AGEing and adult health) SAGE wave-2 (2015-16)

Introduction: Hypertension is a major evolving issue with high prevalence in low-and middle-income countries and is a risk factor for cardiovascular conditions. In India 21.3% of females and 24% of males have high blood pressure, with one of the key reasons identified as consuming far too much salt. Less than 3.5 g of potassium and more than 2 gm of sodium intake per day can contribute to high blood pressure and an elevated risk of stroke. The main objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of hypertension and its association with salt intake and sociodemographic variables among an older age population in India. Method: In the present study we analysed the Study on Global AGEing and Adult Health wave-2 dataset. The prevalence of hypertension was estimated using the weighted prevalence, and risk factors were assessed using multivariable logistic regression, obtaining adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Results: The mean (SD) age of study participants was 62.67 (8.89). The overall prevalence of hypertension was around 41.1%. Participants aged 70-79 years [AOR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.44-2.09], Females [AOR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.24-1.72], richest [AOR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.15-1.76], and consuming far too little salt [AOR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.22-2.39] were significant determinants of hypertension. Conclusion: Out of every 10 elderly adults in India, four are suffering from hypertension. More intervention strategies should be incorporated into the existing healthcare program considering factors like older age group, females and wealthiest individuals. Gender sensitivity must be extensively incorporated into the existing programme.