BACKGROUND

Hypertensive patients have a high risk of developing mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Conflicting studies are available regarding the association of blood pressure control among hypertensive patients diagnosed with comorbid anxiety and/or depression.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the association of hypertension control with anxiety and depression symptoms among patients in a tertiary hospital in La Union.

METHODS

A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 382 hypertensive patients at the outpatient department of Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center. A validated Filipino translation of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale questionnaire was used to measure depression and anxiety symptoms. Descriptive statistics, such as frequency, percentages, mean, and standard deviation were used. The chi-square test and t-test were applied to compare anxiety and depression with socio-demographic profiles and blood pressure control through odds ratios.

RESULTS

Out of the 382 participants, 23% have anxiety symptoms, 7.3% have depression symptoms, and 4.2% have both conditions. Age and low income were significantly associated with depression symptoms while living alone was statistically associated with anxiety symptoms. Low educational attainment was significantly associated with both depression and anxiety symptoms. While no association was found between depression symptoms and blood pressure control, the presence of anxiety symptoms increases the likelihood of poor blood pressure control.

SUMMARY/CONCLUSIONS

Hypertensive patients may experience depression and anxiety symptoms. In addition, the presence of anxiety symptoms contributes to poor BP control. Hence, early detection and regular screening of mental health conditions should be implemented to improve health outcomes and reduce the burden of disease in this population.

Human ; Anxiety ; Depression ; Hypertension