Trends in prevalence, awareness, and control of hypertension and associated dietary factors in Taiwan from 1993 to 2014: Results of Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan (NAHSIT)

Background: Hypertension is a major independent risk factor contributing to cardiovascular disease (CVD). The purpose of this study was to investigate the trends in prevalence, awareness, and control of hypertension and associated nutrition in Taiwan adults (≥18 years) from 1993 to 2014.

Methods: Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan (NAHSIT) is the largest nationwide survey to assess disease and nutrition status since 1993. The hypertension status and 24-hour dietary recall data were obtained from 3 survey periods (1993-1996, 2005-2008, and 2013-2014). SAS and SUDAAN were used to assess the trends in hypertension prevalence, awareness, and control. Linear regression models were used to find the hypertension associated risk factors and dietary factors.

Results: The prevalence of hypertension was 23.2% (Male: 26.5%, Female: 19.0%) in 1993-1996, and decreased to 17.6% (Male: 20.9%, Female: 14.4%) in 2005-2008. In 2013 to 2014, the prevalence rate increased to 25.6% (Male: 29.6%, Female: 21.8%). The awareness of hypertension increased steadily from 1993 (29.6%) to 2014 (64.0%). The control of hypertension increased from 1993-1996 (4.2%) to 2005-2008 (49.9%), but decreased in 2013-2014 (44.1%).

Conclusions: The prevalence of hypertension decreased from 1993-1996 to 2005-2008, but increased again in recent years. Although hypertension awareness improved from 1993 to 2014, the rate remained poor. In the meantime, the control of hypertension decreased in recent years. Urgent strategies are needed to improve prevention and control of hypertension.