The Risk of Hypertension in Igbo Adults Residing in Owerri Using Waist to Hip Ratio and Body Mass Index as Markers

This study investigated the national health status of adults in Owerri Municipal L.G.A. Imo State, Nigeria, as indicated by their body mass index (BMI) and waist to hip ratio (WHR). 100 subjects comprising 50 male and 50 female adults were recruited for the study. Using standard procedures, their systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, pulse rate, age, height, weight and waist and hip circumstances were measured and recorded for BMI and WHR determination. Data were analyzed using SPSS 17.0 for Pearson correlation and t-test. Results showed significant difference (p

Key Words: Hypertension, waist to hip ratio, body mass index, waist circumference, Hip circumference