Objective: To investigate the prevalence and relevant factors on the echocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH).
Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted among the hypertensive patients in an urban community.
Results: The prevalence of LVH was 29.2% in 1 686 hypertensive patients, with 25.4% in males and 34.5% in females, respectively. The prevalence was significantly higher in females than in males (chi(2) = 16.17, P < 0.01). The rate was increasing with age and significantly higher prevalence was observed in 45-, 55-, 65- age groups of females (P < 0.05). Moreover, elevated systolic blood pressure and higher BMI were related to the LVH in hypertensive patients, while higher education level seemed a protective factor.
Conclusion: These results implied that a comprehensive intervention should be taken in the prevention of LVH.