P045 HEALTH AND CARE STATUS OF HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS IN PRIMARY CARE UNITS IN THE CONOCOTO-QUITO-ECUADOR DISTRICT: BASELINE OF THE HEARTS INITIATIVE - 2019

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is a significant global public health problem due to the burden of disease and premature death it causes. Its control depends on the quality and timeliness of diagnosis, treatment, and patient follow-up. Studies show an increase in prevalence, poor control, and low coverage in the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of hypertensive patients. In response to this problem, since 2019 the Ministry of Health of Ecuador has implemented the HEARTS Initiative proposed by PAHO in primary health care units. This study is part of the baseline prior to its implementation. Objective: To identify the health and care status of hypertensive patients attending primary care units in the Conocoto district. Methodology: A descriptive retrospective study was conducted, reviewing the medical records of 681 patients who attended follow-up consultations in the 9 health units of the district. Results: The average age of the patients was 67.12 years (SD 14.2), with 72.1% being women and 96.7% of mixed ethnicity. The average annual number of consultations was 4.24; 40.4% of the patients were overweight and 41% obese. Of the patients who underwent laboratory tests, 45.1% had hypercholesterolemia, 48% had low HDL, and 10.9% had impaired renal function. An electrocardiogram was performed in 3.4% and a funduscopy in 1.7%. Most patients received counselling on lifestyle changes; 31.9% of the patients had uncontrolled hypertension; depending on the health unit this ranged from 11.3% to 52.3%. Conclusions: The lack of hypertension control is lower than reported in other studies, although many patients do not have the minimum necessary tests. Follow-up should be improved, not only of blood pressure control but also of the patient's clinical condition.