Archives of Metabolic Syndrome
Open AccessEpidemiological and Clinical Profiles of Patients Admitted for Hypertensive Crisis in Two Reference Hospitals in the City of Yaounde
Authors: Ndobo Valerie, Ada Kanbaye Medom Hadia, Owona Amalia, Kollo Nzima Brice Kevin, Jemea Bonaventure, Ndongo Amougou Sylvie.
Abstract
Hypertensive crises, characterized by a sudden and severe rise in blood pressure with or without acute target organ damage, remain a significant public health concern due to their high morbidity, mortality, and management cost. Understanding their epidemiological and clinical features is crucial for effective intervention strategies, especially in resource-limited settings. We conducted a retrospective descriptive study at the Yaoundé University Teaching Hospital and the Yaoundé General Hospital from January 2019 to December 2023. We included the complete medical records of patients aged 18 years and above who were admitted for hypertensive crises. Sociodemographic, clinical, and treatment-related data were collected and analyzed using SPSS version 26. A total of 181 cases were included, with a prevalence of hypertensive crises estimated at approximately 8%. The mean patient age was 56.5 ± 12.3 years, and the sex ratio (M:F) was 0.77. Of these, 76.2% had known hypertension, and 88.3% were on antihypertensive treatment, though only 11% demonstrated adherence. A sedentary lifestyle was the most common risk factor (81.1%), and headache was the leading symptom (34.4%). Hypertensive urgencies accounted for 48.6% of cases. Neurological complications were the most frequent, notably stroke (32.5%) and hypertensive encephalopathy (6.6%), followed by acute pulmonary edema (2.7%). Hypertensive crises predominantly affected middle-aged adults, especially women with poorly controlled hypertension and sedentary lifestyles. Hypertensive urgencies were more common than emergencies, with neurological symptoms being the most frequent clinical presentations. Improved prevention, education, and adherence strategies are urgently needed.
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