Evaluation of a mass hypertension screening program

Abstract

Mass screening for hypertension in a population is one means of identifying persons requiring medical care and follow-up in order to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and its sequelae. In 1973, the first mass screening for high blood pressure in a major metropolitan area was performed in New Orleans, Louisiana. In a 2-day period, 30,329 adults were screened; 9,053 individuals were found to have elevated blood pressure and were then referred for further examination. Through mailed questionnaires and telephone interviews, data were obtained from 6,101 (67%) of those referred. Of the respondents, 5,493 (90%) were seen by physicians. Hypertension was confirmed in 3,684 (67%) of these persons, and 3,077 (84%) were found to be taking medication for hypertension. Of this latter group of 3,077 individuals, 1,685 (55%) had been unaware of their hypertension at the time of screening. Initially, mass screening was a means of identifying individuals at risk in certain population groups under certain circumstances, and of stimulating community awareness of the problem. However, in the context of coordinated, large-scale community control of health problems, mass screening should be considered as only part of the overall effort, which must also include the appropriate mechanisms for long-term follow-up and control if it is to be successful.