Blood pressure in 13 American Indian communities: the Strong Heart Study

Using National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) protocols, researchers measured blood pressure in 4549 American Indians ages 45 to 74 from 13 communities. The prevalence of hypertension ranged from 27% to 56%. More than 70% were aware of the diagnosis, more than 50% were receiving treatment, and 30% controlled their hypertension with medication. Blood pressure was significantly related to glucose intolerance, age, obesity, and alcohol consumption. There was little relation between blood pressure and plasma insulin.