National Registry of Hypertension. Epidemiological Characteristics of Hypertension in Argentina. The RENATA 2 study

pp. 340-346

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is the main risk factor for cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular mortality. As the prevalence of hypertension is increasing, it is necessary to know the updated information in Argentina.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of hypertension in Argentina. 

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted including subjects ≥ 18 years from 25 cities in Argentina. The participants were surveyed and blood pressure was measured using validated automated sphygmomanometers.

Results: A total of 5.931 subjects were surveyed. Mean age was 43.5±17.1 years. The prevalence of hypertension was 36.3% (95% CI, 35.1-37.6), was higher in men (43.7% vs. 30.4%; p < 0.0001), and increased with age in both sexes. Among subjects with hypertension, 38.8% were unaware of their condition while 5.7% knew it but were not receiving treatment. In 55.5% of cases, subjects were receiving therapy, and only 24.2% were well controlled, particularly women. In treated subjects, 73.4% were receiving monotherapy and hypertension was controlled in only 43.6%. Patients who adhered to treatment had better blood pressure control than those who did not (46.9% vs. 40.1%; p=0.01).

Conclusions: The prevalence of hypertension in Argentina is 36.3%, in agreement with the reports of the World Health Organization for the region. In 38.8% of cases, participants were unaware of their condition. Half of the subjects with hypertension were receiving drug therapy and only 25% were controlled. Three out of four patients treated were receiving monotherapy. Blood pressure control was associated with better adherence to treatment.