OBJECTIVE: Characterize lifestyle parameters and learn about them, associating the variables with the control of hypertension in people attending outpatient unit. METHOD: Is a descriptive study using interviews and measuring: blood pressure, weight, height and waist circumference, of 511 people with hypertension, being controlled in an outpatient unit. RESULTS: The Body Mass Index was at the upper limit of overweight (29.04 ± 4.35 kg/m2); 32.9% of men and 74.1% of women had waist over 102 cm and 88 cm, respectively; arterial pressure was greater than the limit that characterizes hypertension (151.3 ± 20.5 / 91.8 ± 15.5 mmHg); 44% reported smoking or former smoking; 59% did not practice regularly physical activity, and 24% reported intake of alcohol or interruption - in these respondents the daily amount of ethanol was excessive (71.4 ± 83.2 g). Only 22% of hypertensive were controlled and those who knew that the treatment includes weight reduction were more controlled (p <0.05, 24% vs. 9%). CONCLUSION: The knowledge about lifestyle can influence the control of hypertensive individuals
Hypertension; Obesity; Life style
