[Factors associated with uncontrolled hypertension in patients with and without cardiovascular disease]

Abstract

Introduction and objectives: Hypertension is one of the most prevalent and poorly controlled risk factors, especially in patients with established cardiovascular disease (CVD). The aim of this study was to describe the rate of blood pressure (BP) control and related risk factors.

Methods: Multicenter, cross-sectional and observational registry of patients with hypertension recruited from cardiology and primary care outpatient clinics. Controlled BP defined as <140/90 mmHg.

Results: 55.4% of the 10 743 patients included had controlled BP and these had a slightly higher mean age. Patients with uncontrolled BP were more frequently male, with a higher prevalence of active smokers, obese patients, and patients with diabetes. The rate of controlled BP was similar in patients with or without CVD. Patients with uncontrolled BP had higher levels of blood glucose, total cholesterol, low density lipoproteins and uric acid. Patients with uncontrolled BP were receiving a slightly higher mean number of antihypertensive drugs compared to patients with controlled BP. Patients with CVD were more frequently receiving a renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis inhibitor: 83.5% vs. 73.2% (P<.01). Multivariate analysis identified obesity and current smoking as independently associated with uncontrolled BP, both in patients with or without CVD, as well as relevant differences between the two groups on other factors.

Conclusions: Regardless of the presence of CVD, 55% of hypertensive patients had controlled BP. Lifestyle and diet, especially smoking and obesity, are independently associated with lack of BP control. Full English text available from: www.revespcardiol.org.