title: Isolated Diastolic Hypertension among Adults in Saudi Arabia: Prevalence, Risk Factors, Predictors and Treatment. Results of a National Survey.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  In the past, diastolic hypertension was the main criterion for treatment, but currently, systolic pressure is the main criterion because it was thought that Isolated Diastolic Hypertension (IDH) is not associated with complications. Studies later revealed that IDH carries significant risks. Quantifying the magnitude and risk factors of IDH in the community is essential for all intervention strategies.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  This study aims to determine the prevalence, risk factors, predictors, treatment modalities and lifestyle practices of IDH adult patients in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).
  
  
  METHODS
  Cross-sectional study.
  
  
  METHODS
  A community-based cross-sectional study using STEPwise approach among adults using a multistage, stratified, cluster random sample was carried out. Data were collected using questionnaires which included socio-demographics, blood pressure, biochemical, anthropometric measurements and lifestyle practices. Statistical analysis included calculating means and standard deviations, proportions, univariate and multiple logistic regression analysis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Of a total 4562 subjects, 180 (3.95%) suffered from IDH, which was significantly related to age, gender, employment, smoking, diabetes mellitus, obesity and hypercholesterolemia. More than 93% were using some form of treatment, with 77.2% on prescribed drugs, 63% using diet, and 23% using exercise. Significant predictors of IDH were retirement and hypercholesterolemia.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  IDH is associated with some sociodemographic characteristics and co-morbidity. Given the risk of cardiovascular disease associated with IDH, the findings of this study emphasize the need for diagnosing the disease in middle-aged persons focusing on the modifiable risk factors of IDH.
authors.affiliation: Department of Community Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University of Health Faculty of Medicine, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
authors.forename: Abdalla Abdelwahid
authors.initials: AA
authors.lastname: Saeed
authors.affiliation: Department of Community Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University of Health Faculty of Medicine, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
authors.forename: Nasser Abdulrahman
authors.initials: NA
authors.lastname: Al-Hamdan
keywords: Adults; Saudi Arabia; isolated diastolic hypertension