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May Measurement Month 2018-2019: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Austria
Theresa Glantschnig1,2, Christian Koppelstätter3,2, David Zweiker1,2,4
1Department of Cardiology, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036 Graz, Austria.
Insights
High blood pressure (hypertension) affects over half of screened adults in Austria. Many receiving treatment still have uncontrolled hypertension, highlighting the need for better monitoring and awareness.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Arterial hypertension is a significant global health issue, causing millions of deaths annually.
- May Measurement Month (MMM) aims to increase public awareness of high blood pressure (BP).
- Hypertension prevalence and control remain critical challenges worldwide.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess blood pressure levels and control rates in the Austrian adult population during May Measurement Month (MMM) in 2018 and 2019.
- To identify the proportion of hypertensive individuals on medication and their BP control status.
- To understand factors influencing BP control in a large screened population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 2508 participants aged 18 and above in Austria.
- Blood pressure measurements were conducted following the MMM protocol in MMM18 and MMM19.
- Hypertension defined as BP ≥140/90 mmHg and/or current antihypertensive treatment.
Main Results:
- 54.6% of screened participants were identified as hypertensive.
- Among hypertensive individuals, 56.1% were on medication, but only 42.0% achieved controlled BP (<140/90 mmHg).
- Lower BP was observed in patients with prior myocardial infarction, likely due to enhanced medical monitoring.
Conclusions:
- Despite widespread antihypertensive treatment, a significant portion of the hypertensive population in Austria has uncontrolled blood pressure.
- There is an urgent need for continued population screening and improved monitoring of treatment efficacy.
- Public health initiatives like MMM are crucial for raising awareness and addressing the burden of hypertension.
Abstract:
Arterial hypertension is a global burden leading to over 10.8 million deaths per year worldwide. May Measurement Month (MMM) is a global project initiated by the International Society of Hypertension to raise the awareness of high blood pressure (BP) in the population. Following the MMM protocol 2508 participants ≥18 years had their BP measured in Austria in MMM18 and MMM19. Of those screened, 54.6% were found to be hypertensive, defined as a BP ≥140/90 mmHg and/or being on treatment for hypertension. Among those individuals with hypertension, 56.1% were on medication but only 42.0% of those treated had controlled BP (<140/90 mmHg). Lower BPs were found in those with previous myocardial infarction (MI), probably explained by a medical monitoring system of patients with MI in Austria. Those with hypertension were referred for further medical investigations and were provided lifestyle advice. Among a high number of individuals receiving antihypertensive treatment, BP is still not controlled. Further screening and monitoring of therapeutic effects is urgently required.
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