Awareness of Hypertension Risk Factors Among Market Women in Onitsha, Anambra State

Hypertension is a leading contributor to cardiovascular disease morbidity in Nigeria, with women in informal commercial settings particularly vulnerable due to high stress, poor diet, and limited access to healthcare. This study assessed awareness of hypertension risk factors among market women in Onitsha, Anambra State, South East Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed, with 280 women recruited from Onitsha Main Market and Bridge Head Market through systematic sampling. A structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on awareness of risk factors, screening history, and sources of health information. Data were analysed using frequency tables and chi-square tests. Results showed that while 79 percent of respondents had heard of high blood pressure, only 41 percent could correctly identify three or more risk factors. Fewer than 30 percent had undergone blood pressure measurement in the past year. Women who had received health education from healthcare providers during outreach programmes demonstrated significantly better awareness of hypertension risk factors. Dietary practices including high salt intake, sedentary behaviour, and emotional stress from trading activities were identified as prevalent, unaddressed risks. The study recommended market-targeted health education and blood pressure screening campaigns as integrated components of non-communicable disease prevention. Keywords: hypertension, risk factors, awareness, market women, Onitsha