May Measurement Month 2022: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Kazakhstan

The May Measurement Month (MMM) campaign was carried out in Kazakhstan in 2022 with the aim of raising awareness of raised blood pressure (BP). Here, we report on the findings of the campaign. Adults aged ≥18 years were recruited opportunistically at hypermarkets in Almaty. Three seated BP readings were taken for each participant, along with the completion of a questionnaire on demographics, lifestyle factors, and comorbidities. Hypertension was defined as a systolic BP ≥ 140 mmHg and/or diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg or being on antihypertensive medication. Controlled BP was defined as being on antihypertensive medication with a BP < 140/90 mmHg. Multiple imputation was used to estimate any missing BP readings. In total, 2133 adults were screened, with a mean age of 46.5 years and 49.8% were female. Of all participants, 843 (39.5%) had hypertension, of whom 469 (55.6%) were aware, and 396 (47.0%) were on antihypertensive medication. Of those on antihypertensive medication, 172 (43.4%) had controlled BP, and of all participants with hypertension, 20.4% had controlled BP. In total, 671 (31.5%) were found to have either untreated or inadequately treated hypertension. The MMM campaign in Kazakhstan identified significant numbers of participants with either untreated or inadequately treated hypertension. The findings highlight the urgent need for improved screening, treatment, and management strategies for hypertension in Kazakhstan. Strengthening public health initiatives and increasing awareness can significantly reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease and improve population health outcomes.