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Closing the Gap? Recent Trends in Racial Differences in Blood Pressure Control in the United States
Shakia T Hardy1, Byron C Jaeger2, Paul Muntner2
1Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
Summary
Most US adults have uncontrolled hypertension despite available treatments. This review examines the prevalence of uncontrolled blood pressure (BP) across racial and ethnic groups and discusses strategies for achieving BP equity.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Public Health
- Health Disparities
Background:
- Most US adults have uncontrolled hypertension, failing to meet the 2025 American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology guideline targets (systolic BP ≥ 130 mmHg or diastolic BP ≥ 80 mmHg).
- Significant racial and ethnic disparities in uncontrolled blood pressure (BP) have persisted for decades in the United States.
- Black adults in the US exhibit a higher prevalence of uncontrolled BP compared to White adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current data on the prevalence of uncontrolled blood pressure (BP) across diverse racial and ethnic populations in the US.
- To explore and discuss evidence-based approaches for addressing and reducing BP disparities.
- To highlight strategies aimed at achieving blood pressure (BP) equity in hypertension management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of epidemiological studies and clinical data.
- Analysis of national health surveys and cohort studies.
- Synthesis of research on interventions targeting hypertension control and health equity.
Main Results:
- Data consistently show a higher percentage of US Black adults experiencing uncontrolled hypertension compared to US White adults.
- Prevalence rates of uncontrolled blood pressure (BP) vary significantly among different racial and ethnic groups.
- Existing antihypertensive medications are effective, yet population-level control remains suboptimal, particularly in minority populations.
Conclusions:
- Addressing the high prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension requires a focus on reducing racial and ethnic disparities.
- Achieving blood pressure (BP) equity necessitates targeted strategies and interventions tailored to diverse populations.
- Continued research and implementation of evidence-based approaches are crucial for improving hypertension control and health equity in the US.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Factors affecting Blood pressure
Several physiological and lifestyle factors influence blood pressure (BP). Understanding these factors is crucial as they are significant in patient education and blood pressure management.
Physiological Factors:
Physiological Factors:
01:10Pre-Procedural Guidelines for Assessing Blood Pressure
Accurate blood pressure assessment is crucial for diagnosing and managing various health conditions. To ensure the reliability of these measurements, healthcare professionals must adhere to standardized pre-procedural guidelines. These guidelines enhance patient safety and improve the overall quality of healthcare. The following steps are essential for obtaining accurate and consistent blood pressure readings, from using the appropriate tools to ensuring effective communication with the patient.
01:25Errors occurring during blood pressure monitoring
Blood pressure monitoring is a crucial clinical procedure in diagnosing and managing various cardiovascular conditions. Despite its significance, the accuracy of blood pressure measurements can be compromised by multiple factors, potentially leading to either falsely high or low readings. These inaccuracies are critical as they can significantly impact patient care. So, it is vital to understand these challenges deeply and adopt strategic approaches to minimize errors.
Several factors...
Several factors...
01:30Blood Pressure
Blood pressure (BP) is the pressure or force of blood exerted on the artery's walls as it circulates through the body. It is essential for maintaining blood flow throughout the body.
The average BP in an adult is typically around 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). In this measurement, the numerator (120) indicates the systolic pressure, which is the pressure in the arteries during the contraction of the heart's ventricles as blood is expelled. The denominator (80) represents the diastolic...
The average BP in an adult is typically around 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). In this measurement, the numerator (120) indicates the systolic pressure, which is the pressure in the arteries during the contraction of the heart's ventricles as blood is expelled. The denominator (80) represents the diastolic...
01:24Blood Pressure
The movement of blood in a human body, commonly referred to as blood flow, is determined by the volume of blood that traverses a certain section of the bodily system per unit time. It is the rhythmic contraction of the heart's ventricles that primarily instigates this movement. As the ventricles contract, blood is forced into the prominent arteries, which then flow from areas of greater pressure to lower pressure areas. This movement continues into smaller arteries and arterioles and...
01:28Special considerations while measuring blood pressure
When assessing blood pressure (BP), healthcare professionals must consider various factors and potential unexpected outcomes to ensure accurate readings and provide proper patient care. Adhering to these guidelines is essential to achieving the most reliable results.
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.
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.