The influence of body weight on the development of hypertension and its complications: A study of the Wangata General Hospital and Mbandaka University Hospital

Abstract

This study examines the influence of body weight status on the occurrence of hypertension (HTN) and its complications in patients treated at the Wangata General Hospital and the Mbandaka University Hospital in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Hypertension is a major public health problem worldwide due to its high prevalence and serious cardiovascular, renal and neurological complications. The rise in overweight and obesity, driven by changes in lifestyle, contributes significantly to this situation. The study, which is descriptive and analytical with a quantitative approach, was conducted between January and December 2024. Of the 541 patients seen, 183 with hypertension were included. Data were collected from medical records and analysed using SPSS and Excel software. The results show a predominance of female patients (57.4%) and a high proportion of patients aged 45 to 59 years (37.2%). The majority of patients were overweight, with 35.5% being overweight and 31.7% obese. Moderate hypertension was the most common form (38.8%). The main complications observed were strokes (25.1%), followed by heart failure and kidney damage. Statistical analyses showed a significant association between a high body mass index (BMI) and the occurrence of complications. Obese patients had an approximately threefold higher risk of complications compared with patients of normal weight. The study concludes that body weight status is a determining factor in the onset and progression of hypertension. It recommends strengthening prevention, early screening, health education and the promotion of healthy lifestyles in order to reduce morbidity associated with hypertension.

Keywords: Influence, body weight status, hypertension, Body Mass Index (BMI).

Received Date: February 22, 2026

Accepted Date: March 14, 2026

Published Date: April 02, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/693