Detection and control of arterial hypertension in a rural environment
Rodríguez Martín, R.; Ruiz de la Fuente Tirado, S.
Medicina Clinica 83(12): 485-488
1984
ISSN/ISBN: 0025-7753 PMID: 6513622 Document Number: 222631
The initial results of a hypertension detection and control program in a rural area is analyzed. An average participation of 52.5% with limits that oscillated between 34 and 60% was registered. Female participation was significantly higher than male. The prevalence of hypertension was 25.8% with limits oscillating between 6.3 and 48.7%. Bot mean levels of blood pressure and hypertension prevalence were significantly higher in males with reference to females up to 45 yr old; after this age the opposite situation was observed, also with statistical significance. Of the males who participated in the program, 66% were not aware of their hypertension as well as 49.5% of the females. The average number of females receiving antihypertensive treatment was also significantly higher. Due to the high number of hypertensives detected, low average of controlled hypertensives, high percentage of participation, as well as the low cost and simplicity that such a program encloses it is felt that hypertension detection and control programs in rural areas should be increased.