SCREENING AND PREVALENCE OF SYSTEMIC ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION IN ACADEMICS

Abstract

This article sought to analyze systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) in the university context, considering risk factors, knowledge, and behaviors related to prevention and self-care. This is an exploratory and descriptive study with a mixed approach (quantitative and qualitative), conducted at a private university in Nova Iguaçu, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, involving undergraduate health sciences students. Data collection was carried out using a semi-structured questionnaire administered via Google Forms, including objective and open-ended questions. A total of 35 students participated in the study after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages, while qualitative responses were organized through thematic approximation. The results showed a predominance of female participants, young age group, high prevalence of family history of hypertension and diabetes mellitus, social alcohol consumption, and irregular physical activity, in addition to a low prevalence of previous SAH diagnosis. Despite the low occurrence of the disease, participants demonstrated knowledge about hypertension, its complications, and the importance of early diagnosis. It is concluded that the university environment represents a strategic setting for health promotion, screening, and health education actions, highlighting the role of nursing in prevention, continuous monitoring, and encouragement of healthy lifestyle habits.