Prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of hypertension in rural and urban communities in Latin American countries

Epidemiology of cardiometabolic health in Latin America and strategies to address disparities

In Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), sociodemographic context, socioeconomic disparities and the high level of urbanization provide a unique entry point to reflect on the burden of cardiometabolic disease in the region. Cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death in LAC, precipitated by population growth and ageing together with a rapid increase in the prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors, predominantly obesity and diabetes mellitus, over the past four decades. Strategies to address this growing cardiometabolic burden include both population-wide and individual-based initiatives tailored to the specific challenges faced by different LAC countries, which are heterogeneous. The implementation of public policies to reduce smoking and health system approaches to control hypertension are examples of scalable strategies. The challenges faced by LAC are also opportunities to foster innovative approaches to combat the high burden of cardiometabolic diseases such as implementing digital health interventions and team-based initiatives. This Review provides a summary of trends in the epidemiology of cardiometabolic diseases and their risk factors in LAC as well as context-specific disease determinants and potential solutions to improve cardiometabolic health in the region.

2024 Latin American Society of Hypertension guidelines on the management of arterial hypertension and related comorbidities in Latin America

ABSTRACT

Hypertension is responsible for more than two million deaths due to cardiovascular disease annually in Latin America (LATAM), of which one million occurs before 70 years of age. Hypertension is the main risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, affecting between 20 and 40% of LATAM adults. Since the publication of the 2017 LASH hypertension guidelines, reports from different LATAM countries have confirmed the burden of hypertension on cardiovascular disease events and mortality in the region. Many studies in the region have reported and emphasized the dramatically insufficient blood pressure control. The extremely low rates of awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension, particularly in patients with metabolic disorders, is a recognized severe problem in LATAM. Earlier implementation of antihypertensive interventions and management of all cardiovascular risk factors is the recognized best strategy to improve the natural history of cardiovascular disease in LATAM. The 2024 LASH guidelines have been developed by a large group of experts from internal medicine, cardiology, nephrology, endocrinology, general medicine, geriatrics, pharmacology, and epidemiology of different countries of LATAM and Europe. A careful search for novel studies on hypertension and related diseases in LATAM, together with the new evidence that emerged since the 2017 LASH guidelines, support all statements and recommendations. This update aims to provide clear, concise, accessible, and useful recommendations for health professionals to improve awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension and associated cardiovascular risk factors in the region.

Healthy Life Awareness, Blood Pressure Awareness and Insight Among Adult Individuals: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study

OBJECTIVE

To measure healthy life awareness, blood pressure awareness and insight levels, along with their predisposing factors among adult individuals.

DESIGN

A population-based cross-sectional study.

SAMPLE

The population consisted of adult individuals in a rural district of a city in Türkiye. Voluntary individuals who visited the population screening, organized as the May Measurement Month activity, were invited to the study (n = 290).

MEASUREMENTS

The data were collected by a questionnaire, the Healthy Life Awareness Scale (HeLAS), and the Blood Pressure Awareness and Insight Scale (BASIS). Descriptive statistics, Pearson Correlation, and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

The mean scores of the HeLAS and the BASIS were 49.62 ± 8.30 and 2.89 ± 1.43, respectively. Income level, regular physical activity habits, and formerly being diagnosed with hypertension were positively associated with a healthy life awareness level. Former diagnosis of hypertension, regular medication usage, and being unemployed were the significant predisposing factors of blood pressure awareness and insight level.

CONCLUSIONS

Most adult individuals displayed a moderate level of healthy life awareness and a low level of blood pressure awareness and insight. Nurses could take on the leading role in developing healthy lifestyle habits among individuals, ensure medication treatment adherence, and prevent hypertension prevalence.

Lifestyle Factors, Sociodemographic Characteristics and Incident Hypertension: A Prospective Analysis of the Korean National Health Insurance Service Sample Cohort

BACKGROUND

Hypertension is a significant chronic disease globally, and lifestyle modifications are crucial for the prevention of this disease. We conducted a longitudinal analysis of the associations between lifestyle factors and the incidence of hypertension, stratified by sociodemographic characteristics.

METHODS

We analyzed 113,022 adults (65,315 men), aged 20 years or older from the Korean National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort 2.0 who participated in health screening between 2002 and 2003. Lifestyle factors (smoking, drinking, physical activity) were assessed at baseline using self reports, and incident hypertension was defined based on physician diagnoses. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to assess associations.

RESULTS

During an 11.6-year follow-up, 26,812 new cases of hypertension were identified. The risk of hypertension was high among men and women who smoked over 20 cigarettes daily (men: hazard ratio [HR]: 1.15; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08-1.21; women: HR: 1.62; 95% CI 1.17-2.25) and those who drank over 1.5 bottles of alcohol daily (men, HR: 1.18; 95% CI, 1.12-1.24; women, HR: 1.23; 95% CI 1.02-1.47). These associations tended to be high in high-income men (HR: 1.09; 95% CI, 1.04-1.14), low-income women (HR: 1.19; 95% CI, 1.05-1.35) and non-obese women (HR: 1.13; 95% CI, 1.01-1.27) who currently smoked. Physical activity was inversely associated with incident hypertension in men (HR: 0.96; 95% CI, 0.93-0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

Unhealthy lifestyle factors, such as heavy smoking and drinking, was associated with an increased risk of hypertension, with variations by income, BMI, and sex. These findings underscore the importance of tailored, population-specific prevention strategies to address hypertension disparities.

[Evaluation of Implementation of the HEARTS Initiative in a Rural Community in Venezuela, 2023Avaliação da implementação da iniciativa HEARTS em uma comunidade rural da Venezuela, 2023]

Objective

To evaluate the implementation of HEARTS strategies in a community in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Methods

Quasi-experimental study evaluating the cascade of care, driving factors, and maturity and performance indicators four months after implementation of the HEARTS initiative in 52 patients with high blood pressure (BP) in the community of La Marroquina. The data were processed using SPSS® Statistics, version 25.0. Student's t-distribution and chi-square tests were applied to determine statistical significance.

Results

Fifty patients, 63.5% of them with a low educational level and low or very low socioeconomic status, completed the four-month monitoring period. At baseline, 11.5% had controlled BP and 40.4% initiated monotherapy. By the fourth month, 100% of patients with high BP had been diagnosed, 92% had received treatment, and 52% had achieved control of their BP. Seventy-two percent were receiving combined therapy. Seventy percent of the hypertensive individuals maintained blood pressure levels <140/90 mmHg. The maturity index score was 4 of 5, and the performance index was classified as incipient.

Conclusion

This work shows that, in a short time, a good maturity index was achieved through the implementation, by medical and supervised non-medical personnel, of a standardized protocol for diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of high blood pressure in a rural population. Rates of diagnosis, treatment, and BP control improved, with incipient performance results. Sustaining this initiative will have a major impact on the health of this population. Its implementation as a national public health policy is recommended.

Clinical and treatment profiles of arterial hypertension in Mexico during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional survey endorsed by the "Collaborative Group on Arterial Hypertension"

Background

Arterial hypertension is highly prevalent in Mexico; nevertheless, there are limited insights regarding its management during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here, we estimate the prevalence of clinical and treatment profiles of arterial hypertension and explore associated factors for undiagnosed and uncontrolled hypertension using a cross-sectional survey endorsed by the Collaborative Group on Arterial Hypertension from the Mexican Institute of Social Security.

Methods

Our survey was conducted from May to November 2021 using the May-Measurement Month 2021 protocols of the International Society of Hypertension. Arterial hypertension (defined as: blood pressure [BP] ≥140/90 mmHg, previous diagnosis, or taking antihypertensives) and its clinical and treatment profiles were classified according to the World Hypertension League Expert Committee. Mixed-effects logistic regression models were used to explore associated factors for undiagnosed and uncontrolled hypertension.

Results

Among 77,145 screened participants (women: 62.4%; median age: 46 [IQR: 32-59] years), the prevalence of arterial hypertension was 35.7% (95% CI: 35.3-36.0, n = 27,540). Among participants with arterial hypertension, 30.9% (95% CI: 30.4-31.5, n = 8,533) were undiagnosed, 6.6% (95% CI: 6.3%-6.9%, n = 1,806) were diagnosed but untreated, 43.4% (95% CI: 42.9-44.0, n = 11,965) had uncontrolled hypertension, and only 19% (95% CI: 18.6%-19.5%, n = 5,236) achieved hypertension control (BP < 130/80 mmHg). Explored associated factors for undiagnosed and uncontrolled hypertension include being men, living in the central and southern regions, lower educational attainments, higher use of pharmacological agents, and previous COVID-19 infection.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that adverse arterial hypertension profiles, mainly undiagnosed and uncontrolled hypertension, were highly prevalent during the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico.

Situational analysis of hypertension management at primary health care level in São Paulo, Brazil: population, healthcare professional and health system perspectives

BACKGROUND

Government-led, population-wide initiatives are crucial for advancing the management of hypertension - a leading cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality. An urban population health initiative was conducted against this backdrop, focussing on hypertension in the primary health system in São Paulo, Brazil. Within the frame of the initiative and under the supervision and leadership of the municipal health authorities, a situational analysis was conducted on the needs in hypertension management, marking the first phase of a Design Thinking process. This article describes the situational analysis process and presents the identified elements to be strengthened considering hypertension diagnosis, treatment and control.

METHODS

First, a mixed-methods approach was used, starting with a literature review of municipal hypertension data followed by meetings (N = 20) with the local public health administration to assess health system level components. To investigate activities on hypertension diagnosis, treatment and control, nine primary healthcare units were selected from two districts of São Paulo city- Itaquera and Penha- which received an online form addressed to managers, participated in conversation circles of staff and patients, and underwent shadowing of community health agents.

RESULTS

Data gave rise to two main outputs: (i) a patient care journey map; and (ii) a matrix summarizing the identified needs at patient, healthcare professional and health system level for diagnosis, treatment and control of hypertension. Patient awareness and knowledge of hypertension was found to be insufficient and its management needs to be improved. For health professionals, disease awareness, technical training, more time dedicated to patients, and simplified guidelines and clinical decision-making tools for hypertension management were identified as principal needs. The situational analysis found that the healthcare systems efficiency might be improved by establishing defined treatment and care delivery goals with a focus on outcomes and implemented through action plans.

CONCLUSIONS

This situational analysis identified several needs related to hypertension control in São Paulo that are in line with global challenges to improve the control of CVD risk factors. Findings were also confirmed locally in an expansion phase of this situational analysis to additional primary care facilities. As a consequence, solutions were designed, promptly taken up and implemented by the municipal health secretariat.

The Rationale for Using Fixed-Dose Combination Therapy in the Management of Hypertension in Colombia: A Narrative Review

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and the leading cause of death in Colombia. While the rate of hypertension awareness in Colombia is generally high, rates of treatment initiation, adherence, and blood pressure (BP) control are suboptimal. Major international hypertension guidelines recommend starting treatment with a combination of antihypertensive agents, and the use of a single-pill combination (SPC) to maximize adherence. In contrast, Colombian hypertension guidelines recommend starting treatment with diuretic monotherapy in most patients, and only initiating combination therapy in those with BP > 160/100 mmHg. Therefore, the aim of the current narrative review is to examine the rationale for using SPCs to treat hypertension in Colombia, in the context of the major issues for BP control there. There is evidence of widespread therapeutic inertia in hypertension management, particularly in primary care, in Colombia. Moreover, combination therapy, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and long-acting calcium channel blockers, which are internationally recommended as first-line drug therapies, are underutilized there. Adherence to antihypertensive therapy is low in Colombia and may be enhanced by use of SPCs as well as better patient education and follow-up. While there are promising national initiatives to improve BP management, more needs to be done by individual physicians. Antihypertensive SPCs are available on the national essential medicines list and may help to overcome some of the problems with suboptimal adherence, therapeutic inertia, and low rates of BP control that contribute to the high cardiovascular death rate in Colombia.

Prescription drug coverage and effective coverage of three chronic conditions of high prevalence in Chile: Hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidemia

BACKGROUND

Access to medicines is a serious problem globally and in Chile. Despite the creation of coverage policies, part of the population with chronic conditions of high prevalence, still does not have access to the medicines it requires and disease control continues to be low. The objective of the study was to estimate the medication use and effective coverage for diabetes, dyslipidemia and hypertension in Chile, analyzing them according to sociodemographic variables and social determinants of health.

METHODS

Cross-sectional analytical study with information from the 2016-2017 National Health Survey (sample = 6,233 people aged 15 years or older, expanded = 14,518,969). Descriptive analyses of medication use and effective coverage for hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidemia were carried out, and multivariate logistic regression models were developed to analyze possible associations with variables of interest.

RESULTS

60% of people with hypertension or diabetes use medications and only 27.7% in dyslipidemia. While 54.2% of those with diabetes have their glycemia controlled, in hypertension and dyslipidemia the effective coverage drops to 33.3% and 6.6%, respectively. There are no differences in use by health system, but there are differences in the control of hypertension and diabetes, favoring beneficiaries of the private subsystem. Effective coverage of dyslipidemia and hypertension also increases in those using medications. The drugs coincide with the established protocols, although beneficiaries of the private sector report greater use of innovative drugs.

CONCLUSION

A significant proportion of Chileans with hypertension, diabetes or dyslipidemia still do not use the required medications and do not control their conditions.

Social determinants of blood pressure control in a middle-income country in Latin America

Blood pressure (BP) control is a key intervention to decrease cardiovascular diseases (CVD), the main cause of death in low and middle-income countries (MIC). Scarce data on the determinants of BP control in Latin America are available. Our objective is to explore the role of gender, age, education, and income as social determinants of BP control in Argentina, a MIC with a universal health care system. We evaluated 1184 persons in two hospitals. Blood pressure was measured using automatic oscillometric devices. We selected those patients treated for hypertension. The average BP of less than 140/90 mmHg was considered a controlled BP. We found 638 hypertensive individuals, of whom 477 (75%) were receiving antihypertensive drugs, and of those, 248 (52%) had controlled BP. The prevalence of low education was more frequent in uncontrolled patients (25.3% vs. 16.1%; P < .01). We did not find association between household income, gender, and BP control. Older patients had less BP control (44% of those older than 75 years vs. 60.9% of those younger than 40; test for trend P < .05). Multivariate regression indicates low education (OR 1.71 95% CI [1.05, 2.79]; P = .03) and older age (OR 1.01; 95% IC [1.00, 1.03]) as independent predictors of the lack of BP control. We conclude that rates of BP control are low in Argentina. In a MIC with a universal health care system low education and old age but not household income are independent predictors of the lack of BP control.

Prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of high blood pressure in a cohort in Northern Andean Peru

BACKGROUND

Gaps exist along the high blood pressure (HBP) diagnosis-treatment-control pathway in high, low and middle-income countries.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of HBP and to describe the levels of awareness, control and treatment of HBP in the rural Peruvian Andes.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study is embedded into a multigenerational cohort. We analysed data of all adult participants aged ≥ 30 years (n = 2752) who answered a baseline health and lifestyle questionnaire and underwent a physical examination, which included three blood pressure readings. HBP was defined as measured systolic or diastolic blood pressure (BP) ≥140 and/or 90 mm Hg and/or self-reported physician-diagnosed hypertension and/or self-reported antihypertensive intake. The determinants of the prevalence of HBP, unawareness of HBP and uncontrolled HBP were assessed using mixed-effect logistic regressions.

RESULTS

HBP was present in 18.9% of the participants. Of those with measured HBP, 72.2% were unaware of their HBP. Among those with a diagnosed or medically treated hypertension, 58.4% had uncontrolled HBP. The prevalence of HBP was higher in women (OR: 1.12, CI: 1.02-1.24), increased with age (OR: 1.01, CI: 1.01-1.01) and the presence of family history of hypertension (OR: 1.15, CI: 1.08-1.24), and decreased with healthier lifestyle score (OR: 0.93, CI: 0.91-0.95). Unawareness of HBP was lower among women (OR: 0.56, CI: 0.38-0.83), higher among participants living over 3000 m Above Sea Level (OR: 1.15, CI: 1.03-1.27) and decreased with age (OR: 0.99, CI: 0.98-0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

Unawareness of HBP was high, few HTN patients received treatment and BP remained high in the presence of antihypertensive treatment.

Demographics, smoking status, and systemic health factors associated with apical periodontitis in a Brazilian rural population: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the systemic diseases diabetes mellitus (DM) and arterial hypertension (AH), and smoking status are associated with apical periodontitis (AP) in a representative rural population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cross-sectional study using a representative sample of individuals obtained from a population-based epidemiological survey carried out in the rural area of the city of Rosário do Sul, RS, Brazil, from March 2015 to May 2016. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and clinical examination. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify variables independently associated with AP.

RESULTS

Of the 584 individuals included in the study, 353 (60.4%) had AP. The presence of AP was independently associated with age ≥ 40 years (odds ratio [OR] = 1.867, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.193-2.923, p = 0.006), non-white ethnicity (OR = 1.509, 95% CI: 1.029-2.115, p = 0.035), active or former smoker (OR = 2.087, 95% CI: 1.241-3.510, p = 0.006) and DM or prediabetes (OR = 1.676, 95% CI: 1.150-2.443, p = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

The study identified significant associations between AP and demographics, smoking status, and systemic disease in a Brazilian rural population.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The study emphasized the significance of comprehending and managing associated factors in preventing and treating AP.

Burden of undiagnosed hypertension and its associated factors: A challenge for primary health care in urban Colombia

BACKGROUND

Arterial hypertension is one of the most prevalent chronic, non-communicable diseases and the leading preventable risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all-cause mortality worldwide. Although its primary causes and consequences are preventable, it often remains undiagnosed. Consequently, this study aims to determine the prevalence and factors associated with normotensive, diagnosed, and undiagnosed hypertension in adults.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, population-based study was conducted in Sabaneta, Colombia, between 2021 and 2022, with 286 adults aged 18 and older. Stratified and systematic random sampling methods were employed. The World Health Organization STEP survey and the Perez Rojas test were utilized to assess behavioral risk factors and sedentary lifestyles. Body mass index, waist circumference, and arterial tension were measured using standardized instruments. The prevalence of hypertension was then estimated. Risk factors influencing normotensive, diagnosed, and undiagnosed hypertension were analyzed using multinomial regression. The outcome variable comprised three categories: normotensive (reference category), diagnosed hypertension, and undiagnosed hypertension. The multinomial regression coefficients were exponentiated and are presented as relative risk ratios (RRR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). The model was adjusted for sex and sample weight per neighborhood.

RESULTS

The study revealed a hypertension prevalence of 38.5% and an undiagnosed hypertension rate of 50.9%. Those with undiagnosed hypertension were predominantly adults over 60 years (RRR = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.53-0.86), individuals with an elementary school education (RRR = 1.75; 95% CI: 1.27-2.42), those physically active (RRR = 1.52; 95% CI: 1.22-1.89), without prior diagnoses of chronic comorbidities (RRR = 1.42; 95% CI: 1.12-1.82), and with obesity (RRR = 2.25; 95% CI: 1.63-3.11) or overweight conditions (RRR = 1.70; 95% CI: 1.334-2.15).

CONCLUSIONS

Undiagnosed hypertension was significant among populations without risk conditions. There is an urgent need for community-based early detection and education strategies to mitigate this issue.

Prevalence of hypertension in adults living at altitude in Latin America and the Caribbean: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the prevalence of hypertension in populations living at altitude in Latin America and the Caribbean.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search from January 1, 2000 to January 10, 2023 in Web of Science (WoS)/Core Collection, WoS/Medline, WoS/Scielo, Scopus, PubMed and Embase databases. We included studies that assessed the prevalence of hypertension in altitude populations (>1500 m.a.s.l.) and these were meta-analyzed using a random-effects model. To assess the sources of heterogeneity, we performed subgroup and meta-regression analyses.

RESULTS

Thirty cross-sectional studies (117 406 participants) met the inclusion criteria. Studies used different cut-off points. The prevalence of hypertension in the studies that considered the cut-off point of ≥ 140/90 mmHg in the general population was 19.1%, ≥ 130/85 mmHg was 13.1%, and ≥ 130/80 mmHg was 43.4%. There was a tendency for the prevalence of hypertension to be higher in men. In meta-regression analyses, no association was found between altitude, mean age, year of publication, risk of bias and prevalence of hypertension.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of hypertension in the altitude population of Latin America and the Caribbean is lower than that reported in populations living at sea level and lower than other altitude populations such as Tibetans.

PROSPERO

CRD42021275229.

Doctors' recommendations and healthy lifestyle behaviors among individuals with hypertension in Brazil

Little is known about whether doctors' recommendations encourage healthy behaviors among individuals with hypertension in Brazil. This study examined the biological, social, and health factors related to doctor's recommendations and the associations between doctor's recommendations and healthy behaviors. The sample consisted of individuals with hypertension (N = 18,260) from Brazil's 2019 National Health Survey. The outcomes examined included smoking, drinking, diet, salt intake, physical activity, and doctor visits. Study findings indicated that more than 80% of people with hypertension in Brazil received doctors' recommendations to adhere to medical care and engage in healthy behaviors. Those who received recommendations were more likely to practice healthy eating and exercise regularly but also to be obese/overweight, smoke, and drink excessively. Nonetheless, the findings concerning diet and exercise suggest the value of doctors' recommendations for individuals with hypertension in Brazil.

Candesartan exhibits low intrinsic permeation capacity and affects buccal tissue viability and integrity: An ex vivo study in porcine buccal mucosa

Candesartan is a nonpeptide angiotensin II receptor blocker that selectively binds to angiotensin II receptor subtype 1. It is administered orally in its ester form (candesartan cilexetil). However, its poor aqueous solubility results in its low bioavailability; therefore, other routes of administration must be explored. The buccal mucosa has been extensively studied as an alternative route for drug delivery as it improves the bioavailability of drugs administered via the peroral route. Porcine buccal mucosa has been widely used as an ex vivo model to study the permeability of various diffusants; however, studies on candesartan are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the ex vivo permeation profile of candesartan and its effects on the viability and integrity of porcine buccal mucosa. Initially, we evaluated the viability, integrity, and barrier function of the buccal tissue before performing permeability tests using freshly excised tissues or tissues after 12 h of resection. Here, three indicators were used: caffeine, β-estradiol, and FD-20 penetration; mucosal metabolic activity, as determined using MTT reduction assay; and haematoxylin and eosin staining. Our results indicated that the porcine buccal mucosa preserved its viability, integrity, and barrier function before the permeation assay, allowing the passage of molecules with a molecular mass of less than 20 kDa, such as caffeine, but not β-estradiol and FD-20. Furthermore, we analyzed the intrinsic capacity of candesartan to diffuse through the fresh porcine buccal mucosa under two pH conditions. The concentration of candesartan in the receptor chamber of Franz diffusion cell was quantified using ultra-high liquid chromatography. In the permeation assay, candesartan exhibited a low intrinsic permeation capacity that impacted the buccal tissue viability and integrity, suggesting that using the buccal mucosa as an alternative route of administration requires developing a pharmaceutical formulation that reduces the adverse effects on mucosa and increasing the buccal permeability of candesartan.

Prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension and its associated factors in 50-74 years old Iranian adults: a population-based study

BACKGROUND

By the lengthening of life span, the incidence of chronic diseases such as hypertension and uncontrolled hypertension has increased. This study aims to determine the prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension and its related factors in the age group of 50-74 years in Shahroud, northeast Iran.

METHODS

The data of the third phase of the Shahroud Eye Cohort Study were used in this study. This phase of the cohort study included 4394 participants aged 50 to 74 years from the previous phases. In addition to ophthalmological and optometric examinations, demographic characteristics, blood biochemistry tests, and blood pressure measurements were performed in this phase. Individuals with a blood pressure ≥ 140/90 mm/Hg (being treated or not treated with antihypertensive medicines) were defined as uncontrolled hypertension. In patients with diabetes and chronic kidney disease, blood pressure equal to or higher than 130/80 mm/Hg was considered uncontrolled hypertension. Descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression were used to analyze the data.

FINDINGS

Overall, the prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension out of all the participants was 61.7% (95% CI: 60.3-63.2). Multiple regression results showed that the male gender (OR: 2.1, 95% CI: 1.5-2.9), patients with diabetes (OR:3.2, 95% CI: 2.4-4.3), and patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) (OR: 3.2, 95% CI: 2.5-4.1) increased the risk of uncontrolled hypertension while in patients with cardiovascular disease (OR: 0.6, 95% CI: 0.4-0.8) and polypharmacy (OR: 0.2, 95% CI: 0.1-0.2) reduced the risk of uncontrolled hypertension.

CONCLUSION

The present study showed that uncontrolled hypertension has a high prevalence, and factors such as male gender, diabetes, and CKD are associated with this disorder. So, it is recommended to take the necessary measures to formulate and implement immediate actions to prevent or control hypertension.

Prevalence and Awareness of Hypertension among a Rural Jazan Population

BACKGROUND

Hypertension (HTN) is a major global public health problem. Knowledge of the risk factors and repercussions of HTN is crucial to preventing the disease. Rural populations have lower levels of knowledge of the disease than urban populations. However, no studies have assessed the levels of awareness of HTN and their determinants in rural regions of Saudi Arabia.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the awareness of HTN and its determinants among a rural population of Jazan region, Saudi Arabia.

METHODOLOGY

We conducted a cross-sectional analytical study among six primary healthcare centers selected randomly from the rural areas of Jazan region. We targeted all Saudi adults visiting these centers. Information was gathered using interview questionnaires completed by 607 people. SPSS was utilized to analyze the collected data.

RESULTS

In all population groups, the prevalence of diagnosed HTN increased with age, particularly gradually increasing in those aged younger than 40 years and then rapidly and sharply increasing in those aged 40 years and over. The women (43.3%) had a higher prevalence of HTN than the men (34.6%), which is comparable with findings in other areas in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. Approximately 65.6% of the participants without HTN and 34.4% of the participants with HTN did not know their normal blood pressure. Approximately 61.7% of the participants without HTN and 59.0% of the participants with HTN felt that pharmaceuticals are insufficient in curing HTN, while 60.7% and 64.7% believed that HTN can be cured.

CONCLUSIONS

The global prevalence of HTN is increasing annually owing to rapid changes in lifestyle and dietary habits. Furthermore, because adherence to antihypertensives is poor in rural Jazan, the Ministry of Health and researchers advocate implementing a program to increase awareness and assess patient adherence to prescribed medication for the control of HTN.

Factors Impacting the Uptake of Research into Dietary Sodium Reduction Policies in Five Latin American Countries: A Qualitative Study

Background

Diets high in sodium are a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Latin American countries (LAC) consume more than double the recommended sodium levels. Research uptake in dietary sodium reduction policies has been inconsistent in LAC, and the factors impacting research uptake are largely unknown. This study aimed to describe the barriers and facilitators to the uptake of research into sodium reduction policies from a funded research consortium with 5 LAC (Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Paraguay, and Peru).

Methods

A qualitative case study included 5 researchers and 4 Ministry of Health officers from the funded consortium. Dimensions from Trostle's framework of actors, content, context, and process and relative advantages from the Diffusion of Innovation informed the semi-structured interview guide and analysis. One-on-one interviews were completed from November 2019 to January 2020. The participants validated transcripts, coded, and analyzed using NVivo software.

Results

Key barriers to policy advancements included 1) conflicts of interest from the food industry and some government actors; 2) government turnover resulting in policy and personnel changes; 3) a lack of human and financial resources; and 4) and communication gaps among key actors. Key facilitators to policy advancement included: 1) the content and quality of health economic, food supply, and qualitative data; 2) support, technical assistance, and alliances with the government, non-governmental organizations, and international experts; and 3) researchers enhanced skillsets facilitated with communication and dissemination with policymakers.

Conclusion

Researchers and policymakers are faced with several barriers and facilitators on research uptake in policies and programs in LAC; these factors should be addressed and leveraged to advance sodium reduction policy development. Future LAC studies can draw from the insights and lessons learned from this case study and apply the results to future efforts on policy nutrition to promote healthy eating and reduce CVD risk.

Risk factor clustering in men and women with CHD in the Southern Cone of Latin America

Background

Presence of multiple risk factors (RF) increases the risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and this is especially important in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). The current study investigates sex differences in the presence of multiple cardiovascular RF in subjects with established CHD in the southern Cone of Latin America.

Methods

We analyzed cross-sectional data from the 634 participants aged 35-74 with CHD from the community-based CESCAS Study. We calculated the prevalence for counts of cardiometabolic (hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity, diabetes) and lifestyle (current smoking, unhealthy diet, low physical activity, excessive alcohol consumption) RF. Differences in RF number between men and women were tested with age-adjusted Poisson regression. We identified the most common RF combinations among participants with ≥4 RF. We performed a subgroup analysis by educational level.

Results

The prevalence of cardiometabolic RF ranged from 76.3% (hypertension) to 26.8% (diabetes), and the prevalence of lifestyle RF from 81.9% (unhealthy diet) to 4.3% (excessive alcohol consumption). Obesity, central obesity, diabetes and low physical activity were more common in women, while excessive alcohol consumption and unhealthy diet were more common in men. Close to 85% of women and 81.5% of men presented with ≥4 RF. Women presented with a higher number of overall (relative risk (RR) 1.05, 95% CI 1.02-1.08) and cardiometabolic RF (1.17, 1.09-1.25). These sex differences were found in participants with primary education (RR women overall RF 1.08, 1.00-1.15, cardiometabolic RF 1.23, 1.09-1.39), but were diluted in those with higher educational attainment. The most common RF combination was hypertension/dyslipidemia/obesity/unhealthy diet.

Conclusion

Overall, women showed a higher burden of multiple cardiovascular RF. Sex differences persisted in participants with low educational attainment, and women with low educational level had the highest RF burden.

[Barriers to knowledge, treatment, and control of hypertension in Latin America: a scoping reviewBarreiras ao conhecimento, tratamento e controle da hipertensão arterial na América Latina: uma revisão de escopo]

Objective

Group the barriers to knowledge, treatment, and control of hypertension in patients in Latin America through a scoping review.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Arksey and O'Malley methodological framework and the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Searches were carried out in the PubMed, Virtual Health Library, and Scopus databases. Blind and independent selection was conducted in the RAYYAN QCRI application. Finally, the results of the selected studies were addressed narratively.

Results

Eight qualitative and quantitative studies that fit the research question were included. The most frequently described barriers are systemic barriers that hinder comprehensive and equitable access to health care and medication, as well as a lack of educational programs, personalized interventions to improve adherence to treatments, and lifestyle changes. Economic factors are critical in Latin America, hindering access to the health system and changes to lifestyles due to the costs of transportation, medical appointments, and medicines.

Conclusions

The detected barriers affect all dimensions of adherence to treatment; among the most important barriers are decision makers who lack education and positioning with respect to care of hypertension.

Individual Characteristics, Adherence, and Barriers to Medication Adherence of Hypertensive Patients at the Indonesia - Timor Leste Border

Background: Until the last decade, the incidence of hypertension has increased sharply. It has been reported that individuals with hypertension show a low level of adherence to their therapy management. Moreover, there has been no previous research evaluating individual characteristics, adherence, and barriers to medication adherence among people with hypertension at the border of Indonesia and Timor Leste.Purpose: This study aimed to identify individual characteristics, adherence, and barriers to medication adherence among hypertensive patients.Methods: A total of 112 hypertensive patients recruited using a quota sampling method at the border of Indonesia and Timor Leste participated in this cross-sectional study. Data were collected using the Hill-Bone Questionnaire to identify adherence and the Adherence Barrier Questionnaire (ABQ) to identify barriers to medication adherence. Individual characteristics were also collected. To confirm the hypertension condition at the time of data collection, measurements of blood pressure were retaken. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square analysis were used for data analysis.  Results: The average of systolic blood pressure was 163.85(18.24) mmHg, and the diastolic blood pressure was 99.30(11.57) mmHg. The Chi-square test showed that education and occupation had a significant relationship with adherence (p<0.05) and barriers to medication adherence (p=0.000). Meanwhile, other characteristics, including age, gender, and marital status, were not significantly related to adherence (p>0.05) and barriers to medication adherence (p>0.05).Conclusion: There is a relationship between education and occupation with adherence and barriers to medication adherence, but there is no relationship when viewed from such individual characteristics as age, gender, and marital status. Further research is needed to identify effective educational methods to increase the knowledge, motivation, and self-efficacy of hypertensive patients to improve blood pressure control.

Autocuidado para hipertensos

Objetivo: apresentar o desenvolvimento do material educativo intitulado “Autocuidado para Hipertensos: um guia para cuidar da sua saúde”.Métodos: este material foi desenvolvido com base nas orientações para construção de materiais de orientação para o cuidado em saúde, teve como ponto de partida o estudo multicêntrico: “Efetividade de uma estratégia NUtricional para controle PRESSórico em pacientes com hipertensão arterial sistêmica usuários do Sistema Único de Saúde: estudo NUPRESS”. Para a elaboração do material foi feito um levantamento bibliográfico. Em seguida, foi realizada a escrita dos temas abordados em forma de capítulos e, por último, foi montada a parte gráfica. Quando finalizado, o e-book foi enviado a 10 juízes que o avaliaram e validaram conforme a sua organização, estilo da escrita, aparência e apelo do material. Foram aceitas as sugestões dos juízes e realizadas as alterações. Resultados: os juízes (n=10), com média de idade de 43,7±17,6 anos e sendo 70% do sexo feminino, avaliaram em sua maioria, com concordância que o conteúdo do e-book possuía boa organização e aparência. Já os domínios de estilo de escrita e apelo foram os que apresentaram menor percentual de concordância entre os juízes, embora tenham obtido uma aprovação de 83,3% em cada dimensão. Conclusões: o e-book desenvolvido pode ser utilizado tanto por profissionais da saúde quanto por pessoas com hipertensão com o propósito de educação sobre a doença, saúde e autocuidado. O material tem linguagem objetiva e de fácil compreendimento, sem usar termos técnicos, além disso foram utilizados recursos gráficos para cativar e facilitar a leitura.

Factores de riesgo y muerte cardiovascular en América del Sur

We present cardiovascular disease (CVD) incidence and mortality rates reported for South America stratified by country, sex, and urban/rural location in a multinational cohort included in the Population Urban Rural Epidemiological Study (PURE). This study included 24,718 participants from 51 urban and 49 rural communities in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Colombia and the mean follow-up was 10.3years. CVD incidence and mortality rates were calculated for the total cohort and in subpopulations. Hazard ratios and population attributable fractions (PAFs) for CVD and death were examined for 12 modifiable risk factors, grouped as metabolic (hypertension, diabetes, abdominal obesity, and high non-HDL cholesterol), behavioural (smoking, alcohol, diet quality, and physical activity) and other (education, household air pollution, strength, and depression). The leading causes of death were CVD (31.1%), cancer (30.6%), and respiratory diseases (8.6%). Approximately 72% of the PAFs for CVD and 69% of the PAFs for deaths were attributed to 12 modifiable risk factors. For CVD, the main PAFs were due to hypertension (18.7%), abdominal obesity (15.4%), smoking (13.5%), low muscle strength (5.6%), and diabetes (5.3%). For death, the main PAFs were smoking (14.4%), hypertension (12.0%), low educational level (10.5%), abdominal obesity (9.7%), and diabetes (5.5%). Cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and respiratory diseases account for more than two-thirds of deaths in South America. Men have consistently higher CVD rates and mortality than women. A large proportion of CVD and premature deaths could be avoided by controlling metabolic risk factors and smoking, which are the main risk factors in the region for both CVD and all-cause mortality.

Hipertensión arterial y riesgo cardiovascular

Introducción: la hipertensión arterial es una de las principales enfermedades a nivel mundial y constituye una importante causa de morbilidad y mortalidad para países de bajos y medianos ingresos. Objetivo: determinar la importancia epidemiológica de la hipertensión arterial como factor de riesgo cardiovascular en diferentes estudios realizados a nivel mundial, en Latinoamérica y Colombia. Metodología: se realizó una búsqueda de la literatura científica en las bases de datos de PudMed/Medline, Scielo, LILACS, así como también en revistas médicas y textos publicados por el Ministerio de Salud y Protección Social de Colombia. Discusión y conclusiones: más de 90% de los pacientes hipertensos padecen la forma primaria de la enfermedad, la cual está asociada con un aumento de la resistencia vascular periférica. Las características socioeconómicas de los países y el nivel educativo individual se relacionan con la prevalencia y el manejo adecuado de esta patología. El aumento en la prevalencia de las enfermedades crónicas, sumado a eventos históricos de importancia, fueron determinantes para el desarrollo de estudios epidemiológicos mundiales como el Framingham Heart Study. En América Latina y en Colombia se han realizado diferentes estudios que permiten establecer datos relacionados con la hipertensión arterial, demostrando cifras alarmantes en cuanto al conocimiento, tratamiento y control de esta condición, por lo cual, surge la necesidad de establecer programas para la detección de pacientes hipertensos con el fin de generar estrategias que disminuyan de manera significativa las enfermedades cardiovasculares.

Hypertension and Dyslipidaemia in Argentina: Patient Journey Stages

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) leads to one-third of all deaths in Argentina. To implement patient-centric strategies for reducing CVD burden, available data on hypertension and hypercholesterolemia patients at different stages of their journey: awareness, screening, diagnosis, treatment, adherence, and control were analysed. A semi-systematic review in peer-reviewed databases (EMBASE and MEDLINE) and unstructured sources such as Google Scholar, Argentine Ministry of Health, and World Health Organization websites was conducted till 06.07.2021 for hypertension and dyslipidemia. English articles published in 2010-2021, depicting patient journey data for hypertension or hypercholesterolemia of the nationally representative adult population of Argentina were included. Thesis abstracts, letters to the editor, editorials, and case studies were excluded. No limits were used for unstructured sources. Weighted or simple means were estimated for patient journey stages. Out of 296 and 1257 articles retrieved for hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, respectively, five articles were retained for each of the conditions. The estimates for hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, respectively, were 46.6% and 30.7% for prevalence, 61.6% and 37.3% for awareness, 97.5% and ≥80% for screening, 64.1% and 28.9% for diagnosis, and 49.7% and 36.6% for treatment, and 19.9% and 20% for overall control. Adherence data were not available for hypercholesterolemia, while the same for hypertension was 50.4%. Various determinants are responsible for low adherence such as patient-level barriers, physician-related barriers, and health system-related issues. The review reveals that hypertension and hypercholesterolemia are poorly controlled in Argentina. Although further studies with more accurate data are needed to confirm these results, they should alert the medical community and the public health institutions to take urgent corrective actions.

[Efficacy of a standardized and simplified strategy for the treatment of high blood pressure in Chile: the HEARTS Initiative in the AmericasEficácia de uma estratégia padronizada e simplificada para o tratamento da hipertensão arterial no Chile: a iniciativa HEARTS nas Américas]

Objetivo.

Evaluar la eficacia de un protocolo estandarizado y simplificado basado en los pilares técnicos de la Iniciativa HEARTS para el control de pacientes hipertensos del Programa de Salud Cardiovascular en el primer nivel de atención de salud en Chile.

Métodos.

Estudio observacional longitudinal (cohorte histórica), en 2 centros de salud familiar del primer nivel de atención en Santiago, que comparó el control de presión arterial en adultos hipertensos logrado con el protocolo estandarizado y simplificado, frente al protocolo habitual, según las guías nacionales. Las innovaciones del protocolo estandarizado incluyeron cambios en la coordinación del equipo de salud, inicio de tratamiento farmacológico inmediatamente después de confirmación diagnóstica, tratamiento farmacológico estandarizado con combinación de al menos 2 o 3 fármacos antihipertensivos en un sólo comprimido, en una toma diaria. Se realizó seguimiento por 1 año para evaluar el porcentaje de adherencia al tratamiento y cumplimiento de metas de control de presión arterial (menor a 140/90 mmHg).

Resultados.

Se evaluaron 1 490 pacientes: 562 que utilizaron el protocolo estandarizado y simplificado y 928 tratados con el protocolo habitual (centros de salud familiar-1: 650, centros de salud familiar -2: 278). A 1 año de seguimiento, los pacientes del grupo del protocolo estandarizado y simplificado tuvieron mayor proporción de cumplimiento de metas de control de presión arterial (65% versus 37% y 41%, p<0,001) y mayor porcentaje de adherencia al tratamiento en comparación con aquellos con el protocolo habitual (71% versus 18% y 23%, p<0,001).

Conclusiones.

Los resultados muestran que el protocolo estandarizado y simplificado es más efectivo que el protocolo habitual en el control de hipertensión arterial en pacientes en tratamiento en el primer nivel de atención en Chile. Su implementación a nivel nacional podría contribuir a la disminución de eventos cardiovasculares mayores.

Body mass index, body fat percentage, and visceral fat as mediators in the association between health literacy and hypertension among residents living in rural and suburban areas

Background

Hypertension is a major cause of death and disability worldwide. Enhancing health literacy (HL) may help to alleviate the risk of hypertension and its burden. However, evidence on the association between HL and hypertension and potential mechanisms remain to be explored.

Objectives

This study examined the association between HL and hypertension; and explored whether body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage (PBF), and visceral fat (VF) were mediators of this association in people who resided in rural and suburban areas in Vietnam.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from 1st July to 31st December 2019, involving 1655 residents and exploring participants' sociodemographic characteristics, HL, health-related behaviors, comorbidities, body composition, and blood pressure (BP). People with systolic BP ≥ 140 mmHg or diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg or using antihypertensive medication were classified as having hypertension. Multiple logistic regression and mediation analyses were used to explore associations.

Results

The hypertension prevalence was 41.9% (694/1,655). In adjusted models, a higher HL score was associated with a lower hypertension likelihood (OR = 0.96; 95%CI = 0.95–0.97; p < 0.001). Factors associated with a higher odd of hypertension were overweight/obese (OR = 1.69; 95%CI = 1.24–2.29; p = 0.001), high PBF (OR = 2.35; 95%CI = 1.85–2.99; p < 0.001), and high VF (OR = 2.27; 95%CI = 1.63–3.16; p < 0.001). Notably, PBF significantly mediated the association between HL and hypertension (indirect effect, OR = 0.99; 95%CI = 0.98–0.99; p = 0.009; percent mediated = 8.56%). The mediating roles of BMI and VF were not found.

Conclusion

The prevalence of hypertension was relatively high. People with better HL were less likely to have hypertension. The association between HL and hypertension was partially explained by PBF. Strategic approaches are required to improve people's HL and body fat which further help to manage hypertension in rural and suburban areas.

Challenges faced by patients with dyslipidemia and systemic arterial hypertension in Brazil: a design of the patient journey

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Non-communicable diseases like systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) and dyslipidemia are poorly studied in terms of patient journey aspects. This semi-systematic review provides evidence synthesis for the management of SAH and dyslipidemia in Brazil and also discusses challenges faced by patients at the local level along with a suggested care approach by local experts.

METHODS

A semi-systematic review using both structured literature databases (Embase and Medline) and unstructured scientific records (WHO, IPD, MOH and Google) on hypertension and dyslipidemia in the English language from 2010 to 2019 was performed by reviewers. After two-level screening based on pre-defined criteria, patient journey touchpoints and prevalence information were extracted from the included articles. Data gaps were bridged through the insights of local experts.

RESULTS

Prevalence of hypertension and dyslipidemia in Brazil were 23% and 40.8%, respectively. Awareness of dyslipidemia was found in a larger proportion (58.1%) than in SAH (22.2%). Similarly, screening for hypertension (97%) and dyslipidemia (55.4%) were found to be effective, while treatment was (62.9%) and (30.0%) for hypertension and dyslipidemia, respectively.

CONCLUSION

There were important gaps on patient awareness and treatment of dyslipidemia and hypertension. Limited patient education, regional disease distribution, and treatment allocation, along with limited resources for diagnosis and treatment are the key challenges.

Blood Pressure and Chronic Kidney Disease Progression: An Updated Review

Hypertension (HTN) is common in chronic kidney disease (CKD), and it may aggravate CKD progression. The optimal blood pressure (BP) value in CKD patients is not established yet, although systolic BP ≤130 mmHg is acceptable as a target. Continuous BP monitoring is essential to detect the different variants of high BP and monitor the treatment response. Various methods of BP measurement in the clinic office and at home are currently used. One of these methods is ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM), by which BP can be closely assessed for even diurnal changes.

We conducted a non-systematic literature review to explore and update the association between high BP and the course of CKD and to review various BP monitoring methods to determine the optimal method for BP recording in CKD patients. PubMed, EMBASE, Google, Google Scholar, and Web Science were searched for published reviews and original articles on BP and CKD by using various phrases and keywords such as "hypertension and CKD", "CKD progression and hypertension", "CKD stage and hypertension", "BP control in CKD", "BP measurement methods", "diurnal BP variation effect on CKD progression", and "types of hypertension." We evaluated and discussed published articles relevant to the review objective. Before preparing the final draft of this article, each author was assigned a section of the topic to read, research deeply, and write a summary about the assigned section. Then a summary of each author's contribution was collected and discussed in several group sessions.

Early detection of high BP is essential to prevent CKD development and progression. Although the latest Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines suggest that a systolic BP ≤120 mmHg is the target toprevent CKD progression, systolic BP ≤130 mmHg is universally recommended.ABPM is a promising method to diagnose and follow up on BP control; however, the high cost of the new devices and patient unfamiliarity with them have proven to be major disadvantages with regard to this method.

[Argentine registry of office blood pressure monitoring. RAMPAC study]

INTRODUCTION

Hypertension (HTN) is the leading cause of mortality and disability in the world. In Argentina, almost 44% of hypertensives do not know about their condition and this may be due to the low rate of blood pressure (BP) measurements during the office visit. Our hypothesis is that the measurement and electronic recording of BP (BPMR) is not a routine practice in Argentina.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the rate of office BP measurement in Argentina.

METHODS

This is a retrospective, multicentre, point prevalence study. We analysed all office visits on 9/19/2019 at 9 medical institutions in 6 provinces of Argentina.

RESULTS

Two thousand and eighty-two office visits were analysed. The patients' mean age was 52.1 years (18-103), 1790 (59.7%) were female, and 702 (36.1%) were hypertensives. BP was measured in 420 visits (14.1%; 95% CI 12.8-15.4). In a multivariate logistic regression model, history of HTN (OR 1.91, P<.001) and previous cardiovascular event (OR 1.76, P<.001) were associated with more odds of BPMR. The presence of cancer was associated with fewer odds of BPMR (OR .51, P<.01). Cardiology measured BP up to 49.5% (144/291 visits), followed by internal medicine 30% (152/507 visits).

CONCLUSION

BPMR during office visits is deficient in Argentina and represents a missed healthcare opportunity. Different strategies are needed to detect hypertensive patients and reduce cardiovascular events.

Hypertension continuum of care: Blood pressure screening, diagnosis, treatment, and control in a population-based cohort in Haiti

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of death in low-income countries including Haiti, with hypertension (HTN) being the leading risk factor. This study aims to identify gaps in the HTN continuum of screening, diagnosis, treatment, and blood pressure (BP) control. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected from a population-based sample of adults ≥18 years in Port-au-Prince (PAP) from March 2019 to April 2021. HTN was defined as systolic BP ≥ 140 mmHg, diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg, or use of antihypertensive medication. Screening was defined as ever having had a BP measurement; diagnosis as previously being informed of a HTN diagnosis; treatment as having taken antihypertensives in the past 2 weeks; and controlled as taking antihypertensives and having BP < 140/90 mmHg. Factors associated with attaining each step in the continuum were assessed using Poisson multivariable regressions. Among 2737 participants, 810 (29% age-standardized) had HTN, of whom 97% had been screened, 72% diagnosed, 45% treated, and 13% controlled. There were no significant differences across age groups or sex. Obesity (BMI ≥ 30) was a significant factor associated with receiving treatment compared to normal weight (BMI < 25), with a prevalence ratio (PR) of 1.5 (95% CI 1.1-2.0). Having secondary or higher education was associated with higher likelihood of controlled BP (PR 1.9 [95% CI 1.1-3.3]). In this urban Haitian population, the greatest gaps in HTN care are treatment and control. Targeted interventions are needed to improve these steps, including broader access to affordable treatment, timely distribution of medications, and patient adherence to HTN medication.

Hypertension Prevalence, Awareness, and Control Among Parents of School-Aged Children in the United Arab Emirates

BACKGROUND

Increased blood pressure (BP) is a major cardiovascular disease risk factor. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of hypertension and its awareness and control among parents of school-aged children in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

METHODS

A total of 605 parents participated in this cross-sectional study. Information on socio-demographics, lifestyle factors, and history of chronic disease were collected through an adapted version of the World Health Organization STEPS questionnaire. Fasting blood glucose samples, BP measurements, body mass index (BMI), and waist and hip circumference were obtained using standard measurement protocols. Prevalence of hypertension was identified in the cohorts by defining hypertension using the 2017 American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines (BP≥130/80 mmHg) and the World Health Organization-International Society of Hypertension Guidelines Orchid (BP≥140/90 mmHg) in association with antihypertensive medication use.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 42.9±7.9 years. The prevalence of hypertension was 37.2% (95% CI: 33.5-41.2) and 18.0% (95% CI: 15.2-21.3), using the 2017 and the previous WHO definitions, respectively. Little over half of the sample (51.5%) who were aware of having hypertension reported using antihypertensive medications. Of those reporting the use of antihypertensive medications in the past two days, 13 of 33 patients (39.4%) had their hypertension under control (<140/90 mmHg). The independent correlates of hypertension included age [(adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 1.09 (1.05-1.13], male sex [AOR: 2.48 (1.41-4.34], college or higher education [AOR: 0.22 (0.09-0.56)], family history of hypertension [AOR: 2.03 (1.17-3.53)], obesity [AOR: 3.15 (1.24-7.12)], and moderate or vigorous physical activity [AOR: 0.50 (0.26-0.98)].

CONCLUSION

Hypertension is prevalent among parents of school-going children. Improving lifestyle, health literacy, and introducing innovative models to raise awareness and education about hypertension are essential to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs).

[Indicators of rational prescription of medicines: feasibility of application in institutions in the AmericasIndicadores de prescrição racional de medicamentos: viabilidade de aplicação em instituições das Américas]

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the feasibility of monitoring the quality of use of medicines in health institutions in countries of the Region of the Americas by means of rational prescription indicators.

METHODOLOGY

A quantitative study of the use of medicines was conducted during the period 2016-2018. Rational prescription indicators were developed and selected in accordance with international reference values and the best available evidence for: 1) anti-inflammatory drugs: prescription of ibuprofen and/or naproxen as a percentage of all prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; 2) oral antidiabetics: metformin as a percentage of all prescribed antidiabetics, and metformin and/or sulfonylureas as a percentage of all prescribed antidiabetics; 3) insulins: crystalline insulin and NPH as a percentage of total prescribed insulins; and 4) antihypertensive drugs: angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs-II), and thiazide diuretics as a percentage of all prescribed antihypertensives. The defined daily dose (DDD) per 1 000 inhabitants was used as a measure of consumption per institution.

RESULTS

Prescription of metformin as a percentage of all antidiabetics was lower than the value of the reference indicator (27.9%-67.6% vs. 88%), while the prescription of metformin and/or a sulfonylurea was comparable with that value (80.9%-97.5% vs. 88%). The values of NPH, crystalline, and NPH/crystalline insulin in relation to all prescribed insulins were variable with respect to the reference indicator (37.1%-100% vs. 75%). Prescription of ibuprofen and naproxen was below the value of the indicator (20%-50% vs. 80%). The percentage of ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and thiazides with respect to all antihypertensives ranged from 65.2%-77.2% to 65%, consistent with the value of the proposed indicator.

CONCLUSIONS

The feasibility of applying the selected and constructed indicators of rational prescription was demonstrated. These indicators provide useful information for analyzing the quality of prescription in health institutions in countries in the Region and are a useful tool for periodically monitoring it.

Changes in the Sodium Content of Foods Sold in Four Latin American Countries: 2015 to 2018

In 2015, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) published sodium targets for packaged foods, which included two distinct levels: one “regional” and one “lower” target. Changes to the sodium content of the food supply in Latin American Countries (LAC) has not been evaluated. A repeated cross-sectional study used food label data from 2015 (n = 3859) and 2018 (n = 5312) to determine changes in the proportion of packaged foods meeting the PAHO sodium targets and the distribution in the sodium content of foods in four LAC (Argentina, Costa Rica, Paraguay, Peru). Foods were classified into the 18 food categories in the PAHO targets. The proportion of foods meeting the regional targets increased from 82.9% to 89.3% between 2015 and 2018 (p < 0.001). Overall, 44.4% of categories had significant decreases in mean sodium content. Categories with a higher proportion of foods meeting the regional and lower targets in 2018 compared to 2015 (p < 0.05) were breaded meat and poultry, wet and dry soups, snacks, cakes, bread products, flavored cookies and crackers, and dry pasta and noodles. While positive progress has been made in reducing the sodium content of foods in LAC, sodium intakes in the region remain high. More stringent targets are required to support sodium reduction in LAC.

Long-term Trends in Hypertension Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment, and Control Rate in the Middle East and North Africa: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of 178 Population-Based Studies

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This study investigated and pooled the long-term trends in prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension (HTN) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, EMBASE, and Scopus between database inception and November 2020. All cross-sectional studies that investigated the prevalence of pre-HTN, HTN, awareness, treatment, and control in the MENA counties were included. The selection study, data extraction, and quality assessment were conducted by two investigators independently. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed using Cochran's Q test and I-squared, and due to sever heterogeneity between studies, the random effect model was used to pool the estimates. Sensitivity analysis was performed to estimate the long-term trends in prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control rates of HTN according to definition of HTN as systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg or more, or diastolic blood pressure of 90 mm Hg or more, or being on pharmacological treatment for HTN.

RECENT FINDINGS

Overall, 178 studies met the inclusion criteria. Studies comprised 2,262,797 participants with a mean age of 45.72 ± 8.84 years. According to random effect model, the pooled prevalence of pre-HTN and HTN was 33% (95% CI 28, 39) and 26% (25, 27), respectively. Over the past three decades, prevalence of hypertension increased significantly in the region. The pooled awareness, treatment, and control rates were 50% (48, 53), 41% (38, 44), and 19% (17, 21), receptively. The pooled awareness, treatment, and control rates of HTN were lower significantly in men than women. According to definition of HTN as blood pressures above 140/90 mm Hg, over the past three decades, although the awareness and treatment rates did not change significantly, the control rates improved significantly in the region. The findings showed that HTN is a significant public health problem in the MENA region. Although there are low levels of pooled awareness, treatment, and control rates, the control rates improved over the past three decades in the region.

Latin-American Ambulatory Blood Pressure Registry (MAPA-LATAM): An urgent need

Hypertension (HT) is one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Although it is a global problem, independently of economic situation, region, race or culture, the data available on Latin America are limited. Clinical guidelines emphasise the importance of obtaining reliable blood pressure readings. For this reason, the use of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) is recommended. This improves precision and reproducibility, resulting in better diagnosing and therapeutic decision-making, and constitutes a better estimation of prognosis than office measurements. Unfortunately, there is no global prospective ABPM registry for all of Latin America that analyses HT prevalence, the level of knowledge about it, treatment percentage and the degree of control. Consequently, the authors of this article consider its implementation a priority.

Impact of the complex humanitarian crisis on the epidemiology of the cardiometabolic risk factors in Venezuela

BACKGROUND

The complex humanitarian crisis (CHC) in Venezuela is characterized by food insecurity, hyperinflation, insufficient basic services, and the collapse of the healthcare system. The evolution of the epidemiology of cardiometabolic risk factors in this context is unknown.

AIM

To compile the last 20 years evidence on the prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors in adults of Venezuela in the context of the CHC.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature review of population-based studies of adults in Venezuela from 2000 to 2020.

RESULTS

Seven studies (National EVESCAM 2014-2017, 3 regions VEMSOLS 2006-2010, Maracaibo city 2007-2010, Merida city 2015, Mucuchies city 2009, Barquisimeto city CARMELA 2003-2005, and Zulia state 1999-2001) with samples sizes ranging from 109 to 3414 subjects were included. Over time, apparent decrease was observed in smoking from 21.8% (2003-2005) to 11.7% (2014-2017) and for obesity from 33.3% (2007-2010) to 24.6% (2014-2017). In contrast, there was an apparent increase in diabetes from 6% (2003-2005) to 12.3% (2014-2017), prediabetes 14.6% (2006-2010) to 34.9% (2014-2017), and hypertension 24.7% (2003-2005) to 34.1% (2014-2017). The most prevalent dyslipidemia - a low HDL-cholesterol - remained between 65.3% (1999-2001) and 63.2% (2014-2017). From 2006-2010 to 2014-2017, the high total cholesterol (22.2% vs 19.8%, respectively) and high LDL-cholesterol (23.3% vs 20.5%, respectively) remained similar, but high triglycerides decreased (39.7% vs 22.7%, respectively). Using the same definition across all the studies, metabolic syndrome prevalence increased from 35.6% (2006-2010) to 47.6% (2014-2017). Insufficient physical activity remained steady from 2007-2010 (34.3%) to 2014-2017 (35.2%).

CONCLUSION

Changes in the prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors in Venezuela are heterogeneous and can be affected by various social determinants of health. Though the Venezuelan healthcare system has not successfully adapted, the dynamics and repercussions of the CHC on population-based cardiometabolic care can be instructive for other at-risk populations.

Mapping stages, barriers and facilitators to the implementation of HEARTS in the Americas initiative in 12 countries: A qualitative study

The World Health Organization (WHO) Global Hearts Initiative offers technical packages to reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases through population-wide and targeted health services interventions. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has led implementation of the HEARTS in the Americas Initiative since 2016. The authors mapped the developmental stages, barriers, and facilitators to implementation among the 371 primary health care centers in the participating 12 countries. The authors used the qualitative method of document review to examine cumulative country reports, technical meeting notes, and reports to regional stakeholders. Common implementation barriers include segmentation of health systems, overcoming health care professionals' scope of practice legal restrictions, and lack of health information systems limiting operational evaluation and quality improvement mechanisms. Main implementation facilitators include political support from ministries of health and leading scientific societies, PAHO's role as a regional catalyst to implementation, stakeholder endorsement demonstrated by incorporating HEARTS into official documents, and having a health system oriented to primary health care. Key lessons include the need for political commitment and cultivating on-the-ground leadership to initiate a shift in hypertension care delivery, accompanied by specific progress in the development of standardized treatment protocols and a set of high-quality medicines. By systematizing an implementation strategy to ease integration of interventions into delivery processes, the program strengthened technical leadership and ensured sustainability. These study findings will aid the regional approach by providing a staged planning model that incorporates lessons learned. A systematic approach to implementation will enhance equity, efficiency, scale-up, and sustainability, and ultimately improve population hypertension control.

Worldwide Trends in Prevalence, Mortality, and Disability-Adjusted Life Years for Hypertensive Heart Disease From 1990 to 2017

[Figure: see text].

Epidemiologic Profile of Hypertension in Northern Iranian Population: The PERSIAN Guilan Cohort Study (PGCS)

Background

Estimates region-related prevalence of hypertension and attempts to identify its related factors at the district levels are required for prevention and management of hypertension.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemic features and related factors of hypertension and its awareness, treatment, and control rates among the northern Iranian population.

Methods

It was a community based cross-sectional study based on data from PERSIAN Guilan Cohort Study (PGCS). In total, 10,520 participants (aged 35-70 years) from the Guilan Province in northern Iran included in this study, between October 8, 2014, and January 20, 2017. Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg or a prior diagnosis of hypertension or being on antihypertensive medication. Potential correlates of hypertension and its awareness, treatment and control were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression adjusted for demographic factors, anthropometric characteristics, lifestyle variables, past medical history, and laboratory data.

Results

The prevalence of hypertension was 43.2% and the hypertension awareness, treatment, and control rate were 53.4%, 49.8%, and 73.7%, respectively. The multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that older age, urbanization, lower education, overweight and obesity, lower physical activity, prediabetes and diabetes, cardiovascular disease, psychiatric disorder, positive family history of hypertension and raised serum creatinine were independently associated with presence of hypertension. Awareness of hypertension was greater in the female sex, older age, rural residency, higher education and patient with comorbidities. Older age, rural residency and comorbidities were associated with treatment of hypertension. Control of hypertension was better among younger age, higher education, normal weight and higher physical activity.

Conclusion

Hypertension is highly prevalent in the northern Iranian population. About half of affected persons are unaware of their disease and untreated. Modifying risk factors (such as weight lose and increase physical activity) and increasing hypertension awareness (by screening) is essential for primary and secondary prevention of high blood pressure in this population, especially in urban areas and among males, younger ages, and less educated.

The Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hypertension among the Urban Population in Southeast Asian Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The trend of global prevalence for hypertension has been dramatically increasing for the past two decades in Southeast Asian countries. A systematic review aiming to assess the prevalence of hypertension and its risk factors among the urban population in Southeast Asian countries was conducted. We performed database searches of PubMed and Web of Science and performed meta-analysis to determine the pooled prevalence estimate. The overall pooled prevalence estimate of hypertension for Southeast Asian urban population was 33.82%. Among this, 33.98% of hypertension was reported in the community and 32.45% among adolescents in school. The common risk factors that we found were male, ethnicity, education and socioeconomic level, body mass index, waist circumference, smoking, and dyslipidaemia. The review indicates an urgent need for primary and secondary prevention activities. Therefore, a multisectoral and intersectoral approach and collaboration should be undertaken to improve the overall health outcomes of all populations in all Southeast Asian countries.

Socioeconomic determinants of hypertension and prehypertension in Peru: Evidence from the Peruvian Demographic and Health Survey

Background

Peru is a Latin American country with a significant burden of hypertension that presents worrying rates of disparities in socioeconomic determinants. However, there is a lack of studies exploring the association between those determinants, hypertension and prehypertension in Peruvian population.

Objective

We aimed to assess the association betwgeen socioeconomic determinants, hypertension and prehypertension using a nationally representative survey of Peruvians.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional analysis of the Peruvian Demographic and Health Survey (2018), which is a two-staged regional-level representative survey. We used data from 33,336 people aged 15 and older. The dependent variable was blood pressure classification (normal, prehypertension and hypertension) following the Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee (JNC-7) on hypertension management. Independent variables were socioeconomic: age, sex, marital status, wealth index, health insurance, education, region and area of residence. Due to the nature of the dependent variable (more than two categories), we opted to use the multinomial regression model, adjusting the effect of the multistage sample using the svy command. We tested interactions with the adjusted Wald test.

Results

The prevalence of prehypertension and hypertension was 33.68% and 19.77%, respectively. Awareness was higher in urban than in rural areas (9.61% vs. 8.31%, p = 0.008). Factors associated with a higher prevalence ratio of both prehypertension and hypertension were age (ratios rose with each age group), male sex (prehypertension aRPR 5.15, 95%CI 4.63–5.73; hypertension aRPR 3.85, 95% CI 3.37–4.40) and abdominal obesity (prehypertension aRPR 2.11, 95%CI 1.92–2.31; hypertension aRPR 3.04, 95% CI 2.69–3.43). Factors with a lower prevalence ratio of both diseases were secondary education (prehypertension aRPR 0.76, 95%CI 0.60–0.95; hypertension aRPR 0.75, 95% CI 0.58–0.97), higher education (prehypertension aRPR 0.78, 95%CI 0.61–0.99; hypertension aRPR 0.62, 95% CI 0.46–0.82), being married/cohabiting (prehypertension aRPR 0.87, 95%CI 0.79–0.95; hypertension aRPR 0.77, 95% CI 0.68–0.87), richest wealth index (only prehypertension aRPR 0.76, 95%CI 0.63–0.92) and living in cities different to Lima (rest of the Coastline, Highlands and Jungle). Having health insurance (only hypertension aRPR 1.26, 95%CI 1.03–1.53) and current drinking (only prehypertension aRPR 1.15, 95%CI 1.01–1.32) became significant factors in rural areas.

Conclusions

We evidenced socioeconomic disparities among people with hypertension and prehypertension. Better health policies on reducing the burden of risk factors are needed, besides, policy decision makers should focus on hypertension preventive strategies in Peru.

The burden of hypertension in Ecuador: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Hypertension is a major risk factor of cardiovascular diseases, which occurrence has increased consistently worldwide. With this in mind, this review was designed to evaluate the prevalence of hypertension in Ecuador. We systematically searched publications in Medline, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Cochrane Database, and Ibero-America electronic databases for articles published through September 2019 and reporting the prevalence of hypertension in Ecuador. Selected data were subjected to meta-analysis, and pooled prevalence and their 95% (95% CI) were calculated. Seventeen articles have been selected according to the inclusion/exclusion criteria of the study. The overall estimate of the pooled prevalence of hypertension was 35.8% (CI: 31.3-38.4). Most importantly, the prevalence of hypertension increased markedly with age and obesity. Pooled estimates for the four age subdivisions (<30 years), (≥30 and ≤50 years), (>50 and ≤60 years) and (>60 years) were 9.4% (CI: 7.3-11.5), 22.0% (CI: 19.0-25.0), 26.1% (22.2-30.0) and 48.7% (CI: 45.4-52.0), respectively. Moreover, the pooled estimate of subjects with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² (57.7%, CIs: 45.6-69.8) was markedly higher than those with BMI < 30 kg/m² (30.4%, CI: 23.3-38.4). Although limited, available data reported higher rates of hypertension in Afro-Ecuadorians than other ethnicities. This study underlines a high prevalence of hypertension in adults nationwide, but mostly in elderly and obese individuals. The magnitude of this burden emphasizes the need for robust and targeted interventions to control hypertension, and ultimately reverse the trend of cardiovascular diseases.

Standardized treatment to improve hypertension control in primary health care: The HEARTS in the Americas Initiative

Hypertension is the leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) worldwide. Despite the availability of effective antihypertensive medications, the control of hypertension at a global level is dismal, and consequently, the CVD burden continues to increase. In response, countries in Latin America and the Caribbean are implementing the HEARTS in the Americas, a community-based program that focuses on increasing hypertension control and CVD secondary prevention through risk factor mitigation. One key pillar is the implementation of a standardized hypertension treatment protocol supported by a small, high-quality formulary. This manuscript describes the methodology used by the HEARTS in the Americas program to implement a population-based standardized hypertension treatment protocol. It is rooted in a seamless transition from existing treatment practices to best practice using pharmacologic protocols built around a core set of ideal antihypertensive medications. In alignment with recent major hypertension guidelines, the HEARTS in the Americas protocols call for the rapid control of blood pressure, through the use of two antihypertensive medications, preferably in the form of a single pill, fixed-dose combination, in the initial treatment of hypertension. To date, the HEARTS in the Americas program has seen the improvement in antihypertensive medication formularies and the establishment of pharmacologic treatment protocols tailored to individual participating countries. This has translated to significant increases in hypertension control rates post-program implementation in these jurisdictions. Thus, the HEARTS in the Americas program could serve as a model, for not only the Americas Region but globally, and ultimately decrease the burden of CVD.

Low levels of awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension in Andean communities of Ecuador

The major burden of hypertension (HTN) occurs in low-middle-income countries (LMIC) and it is the main modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Few population studies on HTN prevalence have been carried out in Ecuador where there is limited information regarding its prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control. Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of HTN and its association with socio-economic, nutritional, and lifestyle habits in urban and rural Andean communities of Pichincha province in Ecuador. The authors studied 2020 individuals aged 35-70 years (mean age 50.8 years, 72% women), included in the Ecuadorian cohort of the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiology (PURE) study, from February to December 2018. The hypertension prevalence (>140/90 mmHg) was 27% and was greater in urban than in rural communities, more common in men, in individuals older than 50 years of age, in people with low monthly income and low level of education. Higher prevalence was also observed in subjects with obesity, and among former smokers and those who consumed alcohol. Only 49% of those with HTN were aware of their condition, 40% were using antihypertensive medications, and 19% had their blood pressure under control (<140/90 mmHg). These results showed low levels of awareness, treatment, and control of HTN in the Andean region of Ecuador, suggesting the urgent necessity of implementing programs to improve the diagnosis and management of HTN.