Hypertension in the Homeless Population: A Silent Threat

Background/Significance

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a chronic health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. While hypertension is a common problem among the general population, it is particularly prevalent among the homeless population. Studies have shown that homeless individuals are two to four times more likely to have hypertension than housed individuals (Cunningham, 2021; McCluskey, 2022).

There are a number of factors that contribute to the high prevalence of hypertension in the homeless population. These include:

• Lack of access to healthcare: Homeless individuals often have difficulty accessing regular healthcare, which can make it difficult to detect and manage hypertension.
• Poor diet and nutrition: Homeless individuals often have poor diets that are low in fruits and vegetables and high in salt and unhealthy fats.
• Stress and trauma: Homeless individuals often experience high levels of stress and trauma, which can contribute to hypertension.
• Mental health conditions: Homeless individuals are at increased risk for mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, which can also contribute to hypertension.

Purpose or Aims of the Study

The purpose of this study is to raise awareness of the high prevalence of hypertension in the homeless population and to identify potential strategies for improving hypertension prevention, detection, and management in this vulnerable population.

Methods/Design

This study will involve a review of existing literature on hypertension in the homeless population. The study will also include interviews with healthcare providers and homeless individuals to gather information about the barriers to hypertension care in this population.

Expected Results/Outcomes

The expected results of this study are to:

• Increase awareness of the high prevalence of hypertension in the homeless population.
• Identify barriers to hypertension care in the homeless population.
• Develop recommendations for improving hypertension prevention, detection, and management in the homeless population.

Anticipated Conclusions

This study is expected to conclude that hypertension is a major health problem among the homeless population. The study is also expected to identify several barriers to hypertension care in this population. Finally, the study is expected to develop a number of recommendations for improving hypertension prevention, detection, and management in the homeless population.

Potential Implications to Practice

The findings of this study could have a number of implications for practice. For example, the findings could be used to develop targeted interventions to address hypertension in the homeless population. The findings could also be used to inform policy decisions about healthcare services for the homeless population.