Hypertension detection and control in a rural white Kentucky community

This report presents data on the prevalence of elevated blood pressure and the status of hypertension control in a rural Kentucky community. Medical care is provided to the population under study by a long established organization of nurse practitioners. With the exception of young males, detection of hypertension has been relatively successful. However, fewer than 50 per cent of persons with blood pressure greater than 160/100 mmHg are receiving antihypertensive therapy, and greater than 60 per cent of individuals on therapy have blood pressure greater than 160/100 mmHg. Despite detection of hypertension control has not been achieved in this rural white community.