Measuring Hypertension Progression With Transition Probabilities: Estimates From the WHO SAGE Longitudinal Study

This paper assessed the transition probabilities between stages of hypertension severity and length time an individual might spend at a particular disease state using new American College Cardiology/American Heart Association blood pressure guidelines. Data for this study were drawn from Ghana WHO SAGE longitudinal study, with analytical sample 1884 across two waves. Using multistate Markov model, we estimated seven-year probability normal/elevated (systolic ? 129 mm Hg & diastolic <80 Hg), stage 1 130-139 80-89 2 ?140mm diastolic?90 Hg) adjusted effects anthropometric, lifestyle, socio-demographic factors. At baseline, 22.5% had 52.2% hypertension. The general population was 19.0% (95% CI: 16.4, 21.8) to hypertension, 31.6% 27.6, 35.4%) 48.5% (45.6, 52.1%) remaining 2. Other factors such as being overweight, obese, female, aged 60+ years, urban residence, low education high income associated increased However, consumption recommended servings fruits vegetables per day delay in onset recovery pressure. is first show lifespan sub-Saharan Africa. results are important understanding progression through can be used simulating cost-effective models evaluate policies burden future healthcare.