Spatial Analysis and Multilevel Determinants of Hypertension in Zambia: Analysis of the 2017 WHO STEPS Survey

The study analyzed the prevalence of hypertension in Zambia using data from the 2017 WHO STEPS survey on a sample of 4,301 adults aged 18-69 years. The overall hypertension prevalence was 24.0%, with the highest rates in Lusaka (30.2%), followed by Southern Province (29.9%) and Muchinga (28.3%), while Western Province had the lowest (12.4%). Spatial clustering was statistically significant but modest. Age was the strongest predictor - adults aged 60-69 had sevenfold higher odds of hypertension compared to those aged 18-29. Women had lower odds than men. Other significant factors included obesity, overweight, high cholesterol, diabetes, and single marital status. The study recommends geographically targeted interventions including community health worker-led screening programs and policies reducing salt and alcohol consumption.