Perfil epidemiológico dos idosos portadores de hipertensão arterial de uma Unidade Básica do Município de Grajaú - Maranhão.

Abstract

Systemic Arterial Hypertension (SAH) is a chronic disease of multifactorial origin with a high prevalence in the Brazilian population and is a serious risk factor for the development of cerebrovascular and cardiac complications. Furthermore, it is recognized as a serious public health problem in all regions of the world and in Brazil, with an estimated prevalence of between 50% and 70% among the elderly, becoming one of the main determinants of mortality in this population, therefore requiring adequate identification of the problem and appropriate treatment. This study aims to analyze the epidemiological profile of elderly people with high blood pressure in a basic health unit in the city of Grajaú-MA. This is a descriptive study, with a quantitative approach, where a sample of 50 hypertensive elderly people registered at a Basic Health Unit in the city was randomly selected. As for the categorization process, it was done by simply counting the responses in each statement of the questionnaire, using Microsoft Word software. Then, the data was migrated to Microsoft Excel software, where the data was quantified and statistical analysis was performed using simple percentages. The main results found were: 40% in the 60- 69 years old, 72% female, 46% 1-4 years of education. The highest rates of SAH were evidenced in individuals with low education, a fact that can be explained by greater exposure to risk factors and adverse socioeconomic conditions, such as difficult access to health services and less reach and understanding regarding guidance on modifications. lifestyle, as well as fewer opportunities for access to healthy eating, introduction to physical activity and health self-care. This work is of great relevance to academic society, contributing to the clarification of information regarding the epidemiological profile of hypertensive elderly people. The data demonstrate that there is an urgent need to invest in the issue of health education for the population living with systemic arterial hypertension, in order to minimize the complications inherent to the disease and consequently improve their quality of life