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Abstract
Hypertension, often referred to as the "silent killer," is a condition characterized by persistently high blood pressure—specifically, a systolic blood pressure of ≥ 140 mmHg and a diastolic blood pressure of ≥ 90 mmHg. Globally, one in three adults suffers from hypertension; the prevalence increases after the age of 50 to approximately one in two individuals, with similar rates observed in both genders. Biochemical profiles are affected, and a strong correlation has been established between hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, and an increased risk of osteoporosis. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate changes in biochemical parameters among elderly individuals with hypertension in the Zawiya region, to examine the relationship between blood pressure and these biochemical markers, and to investigate the associations between age, body mass index (BMI), and specific biochemical variables. Materials and Methods: This descriptive, analytical, comparative study involved 200 elderly patients with hypertension and a control group of 100 healthy individuals (aged 60–90 years) recruited from Zawiya Hospital and local health centers. Individuals with chronic liver or kidney diseases, or cancer, were excluded. Fasting blood samples were collected to measure lipid profiles, renal function, liver enzymes, and mineral levels. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS software package. Results: The findings indicated a significant increase in blood pressure readings, triglycerides, and cholesterol levels, alongside a decrease in "good" (HDL) cholesterol. A significant elevation in liver enzymes and markers of renal function (urea, creatinine, and uric acid) was also observed, with a positive correlation between blood pressure and physiological complications. Conclusions: The study concludes that hypertension in the elderly is associated with lipid profile disturbances, as well as impaired liver and kidney function. Furthermore, the findings indicate a positive correlation between high blood pressure and an increase in physiological complications, necessitating comprehensive therapeutic monitoring.