Relationship of hypertension with cholesterol levels For the elderly at the Sidomulyo Health Center In the City of Samarinda

Abstract

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Increased  blood cholesterol can trigger atherosclerosis and narrowing of blood vessels, potentially leading to hypertension. This study aimed to measure the correlation between hypertension and cholesterol levels in 68 elderly respondents (≥60 years) at Sidomulyo Health Center, Samarinda, using a cross-sectional analytical design. Blood pressure is measured with a digital sphygmomanometer, and cholesterol levels are measured through POCT (Point of Care Testing). The results showed that 67.6% of respondents had normal cholesterol, the rest were high or at a high limit. The majority are diagnosed with moderate hypertension. A chi-square statistical test  yielded p=0.584 (>0.05), concluding that there was no significant relationship between the severity of hypertension and cholesterol levels in this elderly group. This suggests other factors, such as age, lifestyle, and heredity, may be more dominant. Therefore, the management of hypertension in the elderly must be carried out holistically. Follow-up studies with larger samples and involving other biochemical parameters (triglycerides, HDL, LDL) are recommended for more representative results.