Family (parental) history and prevalence of hypertension. Results of a nationwide screening program

Abstract

In a nationwide screening program, blood pressure measurements, family (parental) histories of hypertension and self-evaluations of wt class were obtained for more than 500,000 people. Positive family history was associated with hypertension prevalence double that found in persons with negative history and was independent of wt. When overweight was also present, hypertension prevalence was 3-4 .times. as high. Hypertension was more likely to diagnosed in screenees if family history was positive. Such screenees did not have a higher proportion receiving effective treatment than those with negative family history. When an index case of hypertension is found, other family members should be examined. For persons with positive family history, nutritional-hygienic recommendations to avoid overweight may be important in reducing the risk of becoming hypertensive.