Biological relationship between body weight and blood pressure – A one year prospective study of patient in oral diagnosis and radiology clinic, University Of Benin Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Background: Overweight and high blood pressure are topical and challenging issues in healthcare but less stressed in dental care.
Aim: The aim of this study is to analyze the relationship between body weight and blood pressure in the patients attending dental clinic.

Methodology: This study was a one year prospective study of patients attending dental clinic between 2011-2012. African average adult weights (60.7kg) was used as baseline, above which constitutes overweight, while two times measurement and two times visit of physician classification 140/90mmHg was used as basis for blood pressure status.
Result: A total of 4756 patients were seen .50 %( 2378) were overweight and 2.6 %( 124) were hypertensive with weight range of (91-110kg). Grand average blood pressure of patients weighing 101-110kg was 139.67/91.43mmHg.

Conclusion: We therefore conclude that blood pressure check is a necessity especially in overweight patients requiring dental procedures.