Abstract

Background: Hypertension represents a significant public health challenge globally, with women traders potentially facing increased risk due to occupational stress and lifestyle factors. Limited data exist on the burden of hypertension among this specific population in southwestern Nigeria.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of hypertension, assess awareness levels, and identify associated risk factors among women traders in Olorunda Local Government Area, Osun State.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 500 women traders aged 18 years from three major markets in Olorunda LGA between January 2015 and December 2016. Participants were selected using multistage sampling. Data collection involved structured interviews and clinical measurements, including blood pressure assessment. Hypertension was defined as systolic BP 140 mmHg and/or diastolic BP 90 mmHg or current use of antihypertensive medications. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 24.0.

Results: The mean age of participants was 45.3 ± 17.7 years. Hypertension prevalence was 39.8% (n=199), with only 28% (n=140) of participants previously diagnosed. Overall awareness of hypertension as a health condition was high at 74.6% (n=373), primarily through healthcare workers (36.2%) and radio (35.7%). Major recognized risk factors included stress (69.2%), obesity (53.6%), and alcohol consumption (51.7%). Physical inactivity was reported by 77.6% of participants, and 65.4% were obese. Only 56.4% of previously diagnosed hypertensive participants were receiving treatment.

Conclusions: Despite high awareness of hypertension as a health condition, the prevalence remains elevated among women traders, with significant gaps in diagnosis and treatment. Targeted interventions addressing occupational stress, promoting physical activity, and improving healthcare access are needed for this population. The study highlights the need for targeted workplace-based interventions and policy advocacy to reduce hypertension burden.

Key words: Hypertension, women traders, awareness, risk factors, Nigeria