Relationship between Risky Food Consumption Behavior and Hypertension in Java Island, Indonesia: An Ecological Analysis of Basic Health Research Data

Introduction: Hypertension risk is closely linked to high salt intake and low fruit and vegetable consumption. This study explores the association between hypertension prevalence and dietary risk behaviors across Java Island. Materials and methods: This study uses an ecological analysis approach. The study assesses the association between hypertension prevalence and dietary risk behaviors across 119 regions on Java Island using 2018 Indonesia Basic Health Survey (Riskesdas) data. Spatial analysis with Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) mapped prevalence, Chi-square test, and multinomial logistic regression analysis approach. Results: Hypertension prevalence on Java Island is concentrated in the southwest, ranging from 41.3 to 49.6 in 17 districts and cities. West Java and Banten provinces have the highest proportions of high-salt food consumption (46.1 to 79.4), while processed food consumption is also prevalent in the western region. Lebak Regency in Banten has the highest instant noodle consumption. A significant positive correlation was observed between the proportion of Consuming Food containing Flavoring spices (CFF) � 1 time day (p = 0.035), the proportion of Not Consuming Vegetables and Fruit (NCVF) (p=0.018) and hypertension. No significant relationship was identified between high-salt, processed food, instant food consumption, and hypertension. Conclusion: Hypertension and risky food behaviors are prevalent in West Java. A significant relationship exists between seasoning consumption, Not consuming vegetables and fruit and hypertension. These findings highlight the need for sodium reduction and public health initiatives, with further research on region-specific strategies. © 2025 Universiti Putra Malaysia Press. All rights reserved.