Hypertension screening in a dental surgery: a Hungarian study

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Health
• Public Health
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Hypertension is a significant public health concern.
• Dental settings offer opportunities for opportunistic health screenings.
• Oral contraceptive use is widespread among women of reproductive age.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the prevalence of hypertension in patients attending a dental surgery.
• To investigate the relationship between oral contraceptive use and blood pressure.
• To evaluate the awareness and control of hypertension in the screened population.

Main Methods:

• Consecutive sampling of 1,004 patients at a dental surgery in Szeged.
• Blood pressure measurements taken using WHO criteria (BP > 160/95 mmHg).
• Data collected on hypertension awareness, treatment, and oral contraceptive use.

Main Results:

• 24% of adult patients were hypertensive; 35% were unaware.
• 42% of patients on antihypertensive medication had uncontrolled blood pressure.
• Oral contraceptive users exhibited higher blood pressure and increased hypertension frequency.

Conclusions:

• Dental screenings can identify undiagnosed hypertension.
• Oral contraceptive use is associated with elevated blood pressure, a potentially reversible condition.
• Improved hypertension management and awareness are crucial in primary care settings.