Community Practices and Perceptions Regarding Blood Pressure Measurement Techniques

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Despite available blood pressure (BP) measurement methods, many individuals do not undergo regular BP checks, indicating a gap between clinical recommendations and practice.
• Community member perspectives on BP monitoring practices and perceptions are essential for improving adherence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate community members' experiences and perceptions of various blood pressure measurement methods.
• To identify barriers hindering the adoption and regular use of different BP monitoring techniques.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 29 Australian adults (mean age 61 years, 55% female) who had participated in a home BP measurement study.
• Participants had experience with clinic, home BP measurement, 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring (24h ABPM), kiosks, and cuffless BP devices.

Main Results:

• Participants valued clinic BP for direct feedback and home BP for convenience and frequency.
• While most tolerated 24h ABPM, some experienced discomfort. Kiosk BP raised concerns regarding accuracy and privacy.
• Interest in cuffless BP devices is high, but user experience is limited.

Conclusions:

• Barriers exist across clinic, 24-hour ABPM, home BP measurement (HBPM), and kiosk BP methods that impact consumer satisfaction and monitoring rates.
• A coordinated strategy involving health organizations and professionals is needed to enhance BP monitoring.
• Addressing identified barriers is key to increasing the uptake of regular blood pressure monitoring.