Prevalence of hypertension and its related factors among K’Ho ethnic group from 25 to 64 years old at Lien Dam Commune, Di Linh District, Lam Dong Province: a cross-sectional study

Introduction: Hypertension is a major global health concern and a leading cause of preventable mortality. In Vietnam, ethnic minority groups such as the K’Ho may face elevated hypertension risks due to unique cultural practices and socioeconomic disparities. However, little is known about the burden and determinants of hypertension in this population. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hypertension and examine associated factors among the K’Ho ethnic group in Lien Dam commune, Lam Dong province.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among K’Ho adults aged 25–64 using a multistage cluster sampling method. Data were collected through structured interviews and physical examinations. Hypertension was defined according to the 2022 Vietnam National Heart Association recommendations. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with hypertension. Model diagnostics, including multicollinearity, Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC), and Area under the ROC curve (AUC), were used to evaluate model performance.

Results: Among 328 participants, the prevalence of hypertension was 31.7%, higher than the national average. The final multivariable model retained seven predictors, showed good model fit and discriminative performance. Significant risk factors included increasing age, overweight/obesity, high sodium intake, binge drinking, and family history of hypertension. Notably, individuals affiliated with Protestantism had significantly higher prevalence of hypertension compared to Catholics.

Conclusions: Hypertension is highly prevalent among the K’Ho ethnic minority, underscoring the need for targeted public health interventions. Prevention strategies should focus on promoting healthy lifestyles, reducing alcohol and sodium intake, encouraging weight control, and prioritizing early detection, especially among those with a family history of hypertension. The potential influence of religious affiliation on health behaviours warrants further culturally sensitive investigation.