PREVALENCE AND CONTROL OF HYPERTENSION IN AN ONTARIO COUNTY

Abstract

A survey of a representative population sample was carried out to evaluate the prevalence and control of hypertension in Middlesex County, Ontario [Canada]. Of the 3067 subjects selected 2735 completed the initial interview. If the diastolic blood pressure was > 89 mm Hg in 3 readings, up to 2 further visits were made. The prevalence rate of hypertension in the sample was estimated to be 115/1000. Only 5.1% of the hypertensive subjects were unaware of their condition, and 5.4% were aware but not receiving treatment. In 16.9% the hypertension was treated but uncontrolled, while in 72.6% it was treated and controlled. The prevalence rate was significantly higher in the older subjects (P < 0.0001). Control was better in the women and the older subjects. Physicians in Middlesex County are detecting and treating most patients with hypertension; screening programs are thus not needed. Control of hypertension could be further improved by determining why the condition in those receiving treatment is not being controlled.