Knowledge of Avoidable Risk Factors of Hypertension and Their Association with Hypertension Status Among University Students in The United Kingdom
Keywords:
Hypertension, avoidable risk factors, knowledge, university students, lifestyle behavioursAbstract
Hypertension remains a leading contributor to cardiovascular morbidity and premature mortality worldwide, with increasing prevalence observed among younger populations. Although avoidable lifestyle factors account for a substantial proportion of hypertension risk, prevention efforts depend heavily on adequate awareness and understanding of these factors. This study examines the level of knowledge of avoidable risk factors of hypertension among university students in England and evaluates the relationship between these factors and hypertension status. A cross-sectional quantitative design was employed using a structured questionnaire administered to students at a large English university. Descriptive statistics, chi-square analysis, and multinomial logistic regression were used to analyse the data. Findings indicate a high level of knowledge of avoidable risk factors, including alcohol consumption, obesity, high salt intake, and junk food consumption. Despite this, significant associations were observed between several avoidable risk factors and hypertension status, particularly alcohol use, body mass index, salt intake, and frequent consumption of junk food. The results highlight a clear disjunction between knowledge and health behaviour, suggesting that awareness alone is insufficient to reduce hypertension risk among university students. The study underscores the need for prevention strategies that extend beyond information provision to address behavioural, social, and environmental drivers of risk.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Freedom Nwakaego Igheghe, Kennedy Oberhiri Obohwemu,, Celestine Emeka Ekwuluo, Tina Puri, Gordon Mabengban Yakpir, Chika Oguguo, Kenneth Oshiokhayamhe Iyevhobu, Maame Ama Owusuaa-Asante, Efe Clement Abel, Kingsley Chike Madubuike, Mary Oluwayemisi Akadiri, Leonard Nnamdi Meruo, Chisom Lucky Emeka, Jennifer Adaeze Chukwu, Abba Sadiq Usman, Jerry Soni, Chinaza Amalachukwu Emegoakor, , Barth Onyekachi Nwokedi, David Samuel Otu, Tiphonas Moses Omale, Nneka Gloria Anazodo, Eke Desmond Onyebuchukwu, Ekenedilichukwu Anselem Odiegwu, Nwora Chinonso Oli, Orevaoghene Precious Edewor, Bassey Etim Ekpo-Bassey, Akeem Omokide
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