Hypertension among cancer survivors in cameroon: prevalence and associated factors in a sub-saharan african population

Hypertension prevalence among cancer patients is high. However, there is paucity of data on the burden of hypertension among cancer survivors in Cameroon where both conditions are highly prevalent. Objective: We aimed to determine the prevalence of hypertension its associated factors among cancer survivors. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out from January to April 2025. Hypertension was defined as an average of two BP measurements with readings ≥140/90 mmHg, a previous diagnosis of hypertension, or current use of antihypertensive medication. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with hypertension.

Out of the 425 patients with cancer, 150(35.3%) (95% CI: 31.1–39.5) were diagnosed with hypertension. Of these, 83 (55.3%) were newly diagnosed while 67 (44.6%) had a previous diagnosis of hypertension. Among the 67 previously diagnosed hypertensive cancer patients, 61(91%) were on anti-hypertensive treatment. Factors associated with hypertension included age 51-66 years (AOR = 4.85, 95% CI:1.47–16.07), age ≥67 years (AOR = 10.73, 95% CI: 3.09–37.29), married (AOR=2.62, 95% CI: 1.45-4.72, p = 0.001), lung cancer (AOR = 4.68, 95% CI: 1.07–20.48), dyslipidaemia (AOR = 3.06, 95% CI: 1.49–6.26) and dermatologic cancers (AOR = 5.36, 95% CI: 1.06-26.94, p = 0.042).

Hypertension is highly prevalent among Cameroon cancer survivors. It is crucial to perform routine screening in cancer patients with accurate in and out of office blood pressure monitoring.