A Prospective Comparative Study Evaluating Lipid Profile Alterations in Adults with Newly Diagnosed Hypertension versus Normotensive Individuals

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is a major global health problem and an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Dyslipidemia frequently
coexists with hypertension and accelerates atherosclerosis, thereby increasing the risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Early identification
of lipid abnormalities in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients is crucial for effective risk stratification and preventive management, particularly
in resource-limited settings like Bihar, where patients often present late to tertiary care centers.
Aim: To evaluate and compare lipid profile parameters in adults with newly diagnosed hypertension and normotensive individuals attending a
tertiary care referral center in Bihar.
Methodology: This prospective comparative study included 200 participants (100 newly diagnosed hypertensive patients and 100 normotensive
controls) selected randomly from the medicine OPD over a 6-month period. Blood pressure was measured using standard guidelines. Fasting
lipid profile, including total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, HDL, and VLDL, was estimated using enzymatic methods. Data were analyzed using
SPSS version 20. Independent t-test, chi-square test, and Pearson correlation were applied, with p <0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: Hypertensive patients had significantly higher mean levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and VLDL and significantly lower
HDL levels compared to normotensive individuals (p <0.001). Dyslipidemia was present in 72% of hypertensive subjects versus 36% of controls.
A significant positive correlation was observed between blood pressure levels and total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL, while HDL showed
a negative correlation.
Conclusion: Newly diagnosed hypertensive patients demonstrate significant lipid abnormalities at presentation. Routine lipid screening at
diagnosis is essential for early cardiovascular risk assessment and integrated management to reduce long-term morbidity and mortality.