Hypertension represents a public health problem in Tunisia as well as in the entire world.

Estimate prevalence of hypertension in Tunisia, its associated cardiovascular risk factors and evaluate awareness and access of hypertensive patients to health care.

Descriptive transversal regional investigation, realized in 2009, which studied by a home survey a representative sample of Tunisian population. The study was conducted among 1340 persons aged 18 and over, residing in the area of Ariana in Tunis. It included an interview and a physical examination with measurement of blood pressure and anthropometric measurements.

Prevalence of hypertension was 36%, higher in men (41%) than women (34%). It was inversely related to educational and socio-economic level. The prevalence of associated cardiovascular risk factors was high: 10% for diabetes, 9% for dyslipidemia, 24% for obesity and 25% for smoking. Half of hypertensive subjects were aware of having hypertension; among them 96% were receiving treatment.

The prevalence of hypertension was high in 2009 in this cohort of Tunisian population. As primary prevention, it is important to consider lifestyle modification of the Tunisian people in order to reduce this cardiovascular risk factor. Also, screening for hypertension and improving access to health must be established in order to reduce the burden of this cardiovascular risk factor.