Prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension and associated factors among people over 18 years old living in rural Sucos, of 3 Municipalities, in Timor-Leste

Background. Even though, Hypertension is common public health problem, however, many people still not aware of their status, it was reported that 580 million people around the globe are not aware of their hypertensive condition, and this is not explored in Timor Leste, therefore; this study aims to determine the prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension in rural area in 3 Municipalities of Timor Leste. Methods: Community based -Cross sectional study.
Results. The Overall prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension in 3 rural aldeias of 3 municipalities was 15 % of these 63 % were males, and 37 % were females, most affected age group was 59-78, suggesting age related risk, and also poor health care for aging population, Interestingly, we found that 76 percent of the hypertensive individual were underweight. Factors associated to undiagnosed hypertension was education level, age, and knowledge about hypertension.
Conclusion & and recommendations. Undiagnosed hypertension pravelence was 15 %. Improve screening for hypertension in rural communities, using periodic and targeted approach would help in controlling Hypertension and other NCDs.