Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 10, 2025
Hydra, a Computer-Based Platform for Aiding Clinicians in Cardiovascular Analysis and Diagnosis
Published on: September 26, 2018
May Measurement Month 2018: an analysis of blood pressure screening in Libya
Thomas Beaney1,2, Anca Chis Ster1, Neil R Poulter1
1Imperial Clinical Trials Unit, Imperial College London, Stadium House, 68 Wood Lane, London W12 7RH, UK.
Insights
High blood pressure (hypertension) affects 35.3% of adults in Libya, with over half unaware they have the condition. This highlights a critical need for increased hypertension screening and awareness programs.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Elevated blood pressure (hypertension) is a significant public health issue linked to adverse cardiovascular events.
- A 2009 survey in Libya indicated a hypertension prevalence of 40.6%.
Purpose of the Study:
- To increase awareness of high blood pressure.
- To underscore the magnitude of the hypertension problem in Libya.
- To emphasize the necessity for widespread hypertension screening.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional opportunistic study was conducted.
- Participants included men and women aged 18 years and older.
- Blood pressure was measured thrice, and a questionnaire was administered. Hypertension was defined as BP ≥140/90 mmHg or current antihypertensive treatment.
Main Results:
- Out of 7279 participants, 35.3% had hypertension.
- Among those with hypertension, 63.4% were aware of their condition.
- 55.8% were on medication, and 50.9% of those had controlled blood pressure.
Conclusions:
- The study identified a substantial prevalence of hypertension in the surveyed population.
- A significant proportion of individuals with hypertension remain unaware of their diagnosis.
- These findings necessitate a more strategic public health approach to manage and combat hypertension effectively.
Abstract:
Elevated blood pressure (BP) is an important public health concern and leads to several adverse cardiovascular outcomes. In the stepwise survey done in Libya by the Libyan Cardiac Society and National Centre for Disease Control in 2009, the percentage of hypertension was 40.6%. To raise awareness of high BP and to highlight the size of the problem and the need for screening. A cross-sectional opportunistic study included men and women aged ≥18 years. Blood pressure was measured three times and a questionnaire was completed. Hypertension was defined as BP ≥140/90 mmHg based on the mean of the 2nd and 3rd readings, or on antihypertensive treatment. Among 7279 participants, the mean age was 44.3 ± 14.8 years, 57.8% male, 2567 (35.3%) of the participants had hypertension of whom 63.4% were aware of having hypertension, 55.8% on medication, and of those on medication 50.9% had controlled BP. This survey identified a high proportion of individuals with high BP, which highlights the need for a more strategic approach to fighting hypertension.
Related Concept Videos
01:11Assessing Blood pressure in the Leg
Preparation:
01:10Pre-Procedural Guidelines for Assessing Blood Pressure
01:15Assessment of blood pressure in brachial artery(one-step method)
Prepare for the Procedure:
01:25Errors occurring during blood pressure monitoring
Several factors...
01:28Special considerations while measuring blood pressure
Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.
01:24Blood Pressure