EVALUATING THE POTENTIAL CAUSAL ROLE OF STRESS IN THE HIGH INCIDENCE OF HYPERTENSION AND DIABETES AND THE LOW INCIDENCE OF ASTHMA

Abstract

Background: Predisposing factors for stroke, heart disease, and mortality, diabetes and hypertension are major worldwide health burdens, especially in India. The socioeconomic position of Indian individuals is also linked to increased levels of stress among them.

Aim: The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the potential causal relationship between stress and the low prevalence of asthma and the high incidence of diabetes and hypertension.

Methods: A total of 250 visitors to the Indian medical facility were evaluated for the study. The prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and asthma was evaluated in addition to the individuals' awareness of the illnesses and their understanding of how to manage them. The individuals' experiences with stress and the kinds of stress they faced were also evaluated.

Results: The research's findings revealed that hypertension was documented in 46.8% (n=117) of study participants with the highest incidence in the age range of individuals older than 40 years, and diabetes was common in 12% (n=30) of study subjects with the highest prevalence in the 40–60 year age range. Asthma incidence was reduced across all age groups. Of the 150 research participants, 60% reported having a stressful existence.

Conclusion: Indian citizens have a high incidence of both hypertension and diabetes. Nonetheless, the prevalence of asthma is minimal, and a significant proportion of those afflicted remain oblivious to their diabetes and hypertension conditions.