High blood pressure is a global public health problem. High blood pressure shows no signs or
symptoms and it can only be detected through BP measurements by a health professionals. It’s
a chronic condition which requires long term management. Poor control of high blood pressure
can lead to complications and even death. The aim of the study was to determine the
prevalence of high blood pressure among University of Venda academic staff. UNIVEN is
situated in Thohoyandou, Vhembe District in Limpopo. A cross-sectional design was used. A
modified WHO stepwise questionnaire for non-communicable diseases version 3.1 was used to
collect data regarding demographic characteristics, BP status, and stress and lifestyle
characteristics. Charts and graphs were used to present the results of the study. The Statistical
Package of Social Sciences was used to analyse data. The Chi-square test was used to
determine the association between blood pressure and risk factors. A total of 179 respondents
were selected, their ages of were ranged from 22 to 68 years. Their blood pressure, weight and
height of the participants were also measured. The prevalence of high blood pressure was 20%,
while 46% were on prehypertension stage and about 34% had a normal BP. About 23% had
been previously diagnosed with HBP, while about 90% were on treatment for high blood
pressure. Only 13% had their BP under control. The prevalence of high blood pressure was
associated with gender, family history, vegetable intake and diabetes. Department of Sports
need to introduce sports among academic staff as a way of prevention and management of high
blood pressure.