Health Expenses and Outcomes of the DASH Diet in Egyptian Patients With Hypertension

Hypertension is a prevalent cardiovascular risk factor associated with adverse outcomes and obesity. Egypt's prevalence is 26.3%, exceeding rates in the U.S. and sub-Saharan Africa. Lifestyle interventions like the DASH diet effectively manage hypertension, offering a cost-effective alternative to pharmacological treatments. This study aims to assess the effects of the DASH diet on blood pressure, BMI, waist circumference, and fasting blood glucose, as well as its cost-effectiveness compared to pharmacological treatments. This open-label prospective controlled clinical trial was conducted in Esna Health Administration, Luxor Governorate. The FMREC of Beni-Suef University approved the study, which included 364 hypertensive patients aged 30-60. Exclusions were patients with severe comorbidities or those who declined participation. Measurements included height, weight, BMI, blood pressure, and laboratory tests. The intervention group received a DASH diet education program. Outcomes measured were blood pressure, BMI, waist circumference, weight, and fasting blood glucose at baseline and post-intervention. Our study demonstrates the significant benefits of the DASH diet in managing blood pressure, weight, and fasting blood glucose levels in the Egyptian population. The DASH diet substantially reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure, with a notable decrease in the number of antihypertensive medications needed. Additionally, participants on the DASH diet experienced significant weight loss and reduced BMI and waist circumference compared to the control group. The economic implications of the DASH diet are also promising, with a notable decrease in the total cost of therapy due to reduced medication costs.