Saintika Medika: Jurnal Ilmu Kesehatan dan Kedokteran Keluarga.
Vol. 22 No. 1 (2026): June 2026

Hypertension as a Determinant of Elevated Stress Among Hajj Pilgrims: A Cross-Sectional Study

Faridj Maulana Amir (Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara)
Elman Boy (Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara)
Ahmad Handayani (Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara)
Nurhasanah (Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara)



Article Info

Publish Date
04 Jun 2026

Abstract

Introduction: The Hajj pilgrimage involves physically and mentally demanding rituals under extreme conditions, including heat, crowding, and long travel, which can increase psychological stress. Hypertension may worsen this stress due to higher risk of complications and altered stress responses. This study aimed to evaluate hypertension as a determinant of stress among Hajj pilgrims in Medan in 2024. Methods: An analytic cross-sectional study was conducted on 56 pilgrims, divided into two groups: 28 with hypertension and 28 without. Stress levels were measured using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and analyzed using the chi-square test. Results: There was a significant association between hypertension and stress levels (p < 0.05). Pilgrims with hypertension had higher stress levels compared to those without hypertension. Discussion: Hypertension is associated with increased stress among Hajj pilgrims. Concerns about health risks during demanding rituals may heighten psychological burden. Proper hypertension management and psychological support before and during Hajj are important to reduce stress and improve pilgrims’ well-being.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

sainmed

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions Medicine & Pharmacology Public Health

Description

Journal of Saintika Medika is a peer-reviewed and open access journal that focuses on promoting medical sciences generated from basic sciences, clinical, and community or public health research to integrate researches in all aspects of human health. This journal publishes original articles, reviews, ...