A Review of Occupational and Multifactorial Determinants of Hypertension

Hypertension is a global health priority and is influences by various modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Educational attainment proved to be a significant determinant, and generally, higher education was related to lower risk, although some studies reported findings in opposition to this view. Family income, as a socioeconomic factor, was strongly associated with increased risk of hypertension, especially in men. Obesity consistently showed strong effects on hypertension; the higher the body mass index, the greater the odds of developing the condition in many populations. Family history was established as a significant non-modifiable risk factor, which greatly increased the susceptibility to hypertension. Behavioral factors include smoking and alcohol consumption, which were also found to be positively related to hypertension in most of the regions, but with some inconsistencies in the results of some Middle Eastern countries. Dietary patterns, with high consumptions of salt and red meat, have been strongly linked with hypertension, while a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains showed protective effects. Physical inactivity-whether leisure or occupational-has come out consistently in most studies, with significant and strong reductions in the risk of developing hypertension through neurohormonal and vascular mechanisms. This review has underlined the multisectoral nature of hypertension risk factors, pointing out not only the interplay between biological, socioeconomic, and behavioral determinants but also calling for an integrated approach that uses education and lifestyle modifications along with early detection in order to reduce the global burden of hypertension.