Achieve Blood Pressure Control Research Articles

The link between insurance and blood pressure control in U.S. stroke survivors

BackgroundAfter a stroke, poorly controlled blood pressure (BP) is associated with a higher risk of recurrent vascular events. Despite the importance of controlling BP to avert recurrent vascular events, fewer than half of stroke survivors in the United States achieve BP control. It is unclear to what extent insurance status affects BP levels after stroke. MethodsWe assessed BP control among adults with a history of stroke who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys from 1999 through 2016. The relationship between insurance type and BP level (low normal: <120/80 mmHg and normal: <140/90 mmHg) were evaluated using logistic regression before and after adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and medical comorbidities for those <65 years and ≥ 65 years. ResultsAmong 1646 adult stroke survivors (weighted n = 5,586,417), 30% had BP in the low normal range while 64% had BP in the normal range. Among 613 stroke survivors <65 years (weighted n = 2,396,980), only those with other government insurance (CHAMPVA, CHAMPUS/TRICARE) had better BP control than the uninsured (adjusted HR 2.68, 95% CI 0.99–7.25). Among 1033 participants ≥65 years (weighted n = 3,189,437), those with private insurance plus Medicare trended toward better normal BP compared to Medicare alone (adjusted HR 1.34, 95% CI 0.94–1.90). ConclusionsOnly stroke survivors with CHAMPVA, CHAMPUS/TRICARE government insurance in the United States have lower odds of controlled BP compared to no insurance among those <65 years. Insurance alone does not improve BP control among stroke survivors.

A Multi-Component Intervention to Improve Therapeutic Adherence in Uncontrolled Hypertensive Patients Within the Primary Care Level: A Before-and-After Study.

Non-adherence to medication severely affects chronic disease control. To assess whether a multi-component intervention implemented at the public primary care level in Argentina improves adherence to antihypertensive medication and helps to reduce blood pressure (BP) levels in uncontrolled hypertensive patients. A before-and-after study was conducted in five public primary care clinics located in the city of Almirante Brown, Argentina. One hundred and twenty-five uncontrolled hypertensive patients received a multi-component intervention based on the Chronic Care model and the 5As strategy (Ask, Advise, Agree, Assist, and Arrange). Medication possession ratio (MPR) and BP values were assessed before and after a 6-month period. The follow-up rate was 96.8%. Main baseline characteristics were as follows, male: 44.8%, mean age: 57.1 years (±8.1), exclusive public healthcare coverage: 83.5%, primary school level or less: 68.8%, and mean systolic/diastolic BP: 157.4 (±13.6)/97.7 (±8.2) mmHg. After implementing the intervention, a significant increase in the proportion of adequate adherence (MPR ≥ 80%) was observed, from 16.8% at baseline to 47.2% (p < 0.001). A significant reduction of 16.4 mmHg (CI 95%: 19.6, 13.1) was observed for systolic blood pressure (SBP) and 12.0 mmHg (CI 95%: 14.2, 9.9) for diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (p < 0.001). At 6 months, 51.2% of the population achieved blood pressure control (SBP < 140 mmHg and DBP < 90 mmHg). The study intervention was associated with an increased adherence rate, achieving a significant reduction in BP values and reaching BP control in more than half of the population.

The short and long-term efficacy of nurse-led interventions for improving blood pressure control in people with hypertension in primary care settings: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundPrevious systematic reviews suggest that nurse-led interventions improve short-term blood pressure (BP) control for people with hypertension. However, the long-term effects, adverse events, and appropriate target BP level are unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of nurse-led interventions.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, and CINAHL, as well as three Japanese article databases, as relevant randomized controlled trials from the oldest possible to March 2021. This search was conducted on 17 April 2021. We did an update search on 17 October 2023. We included studies on adults aged 18 years or older with hypertension. The treatments of interest were community-based nurse-led BP control interventions in addition to primary physician-provided care as usual. The comparator was usual care only. Primary outcomes were long-term achievement of BP control goals and serious adverse events (range: 27 weeks to 3 years). Secondary outcomes were short-term achievement of BP control goals and serious adverse events (range: 4 to 26 weeks), change of systolic and diastolic BP from baseline, medication adherence, incidence of hypertensive complications, and total mortality.ResultsWe included 35 studies. Nurse-led interventions improved long-term BP control (RR 1.10, 95%CI 1.03 to 1.18). However, no significant differences were found in the short-term effects of nurse-led intervention compared to usual care about BP targets. Little information on serious adverse events was available. There was no difference in mortality at both terms between the two groups. Establishing the appropriate target BP from the extant trials was impossible.ConclusionsNurse-led interventions may be more effective than usual care for achieving BP control at long-term follow-up. It is important to continue lifestyle modification for people with hypertension. We must pay attention to adverse events, and more studies examining appropriate BP targets are needed. Nurse-led care represents an important complement to primary physician-led usual care.

Furosemide to lower antenatal severe hypertension: a randomized placebo-controlled trial

BackgroundHypertensive disorders of pregnancy are a leading cause of perinatal morbidity, and timely treatment of severely elevated blood pressure is recommended to prevent serious sequelae. In acute hypertension marked by increased blood volume, it is unknown whether diuretics used as an adjunct to antihypertensive medications leads to more effective blood pressure control. ObjectiveTo evaluate whether the addition of intravenous furosemide to first-line antihypertensive agents reduces systolic blood pressure in acute-onset, severe antenatal hypertension with wide (≥60 mmgHg) pulse pressure. Study DesignIn this double-blinded randomized trial, participants received 40 milligrams of intravenous furosemide or placebo in addition to a first-line antihypertensive agent. The primary outcome was mean systolic blood pressure during the first hour after intervention. Secondary outcomes included corresponding diastolic blood pressure; systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and pulse pressure at 2 hours after intervention; total reduction from qualifying blood pressure, duration of blood pressure control, need for additional antihypertensive doses within 1 hour, and electrolytes and urine output. A sample size of 35 subjects per group was planned to detect a 15-mmHg difference in blood pressure. ResultsBetween January 2021 and March 2022, 65 individuals were randomized, 33 to furosemide and 32 to placebo. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. There was no difference in the primary outcome of mean 1-hour systolic blood pressure (147 [14.8] vs 152 mmHg [13.8], P=.200). We found a reduction in 2-hour systolic blood pressure (139 [18.5] vs 154 mmHg [18.4], P=.007) and a decrease in 2-hour pulse pressure (55 [12.5] vs 67 [15.1], P=.003) in the furosemide group. Subgroup analysis according to hypertension type showed a significant reduction in mean 1-hour systolic blood pressure, 2-hour systolic blood pressure, and 2-hour pulse pressure among patients with new-onset but not pre-existing hypertension. Urine output was greater in the furosemide group with no difference in electrolytes and creatinine before and after intervention. ConclusionIntravenous furosemide in conjunction with a first-line antihypertensive agent did not significantly reduce systolic blood pressure in the first hour after administration. However, both systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure at 2 hours were decreased in the furosemide group. These findings suggest that a one-time dose of intravenous furosemide is a reasonable adjunct to achieve blood pressure control, particularly in patients in whom increased volume is suspected.

Clinical Decision Support for Hypertension Management in Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 37 million adults in the United States, and for patients with CKD, hypertension is a key risk factor for adverse outcomes, such as kidney failure, cardiovascular events, and death. To evaluate a computerized clinical decision support (CDS) system for the management of uncontrolled hypertension in patients with CKD. This multiclinic, randomized clinical trial randomized primary care practitioners (PCPs) at a primary care network, including 15 hospital-based, ambulatory, and community health center-based clinics, through a stratified, matched-pair randomization approach February 2021 to February 2022. All adult patients with a visit to a PCP in the last 2 years were eligible and those with evidence of CKD and hypertension were included. The intervention consisted of a CDS system based on behavioral economic principles and human-centered design methods that delivered tailored, evidence-based recommendations, including initiation or titration of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors. The patients in the control group received usual care from PCPs with the CDS system operating in silent mode. The primary outcome was the change in mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) between baseline and 180 days compared between groups. The primary analysis was a repeated measures linear mixed model, using SBP at baseline, 90 days, and 180 days in an intention-to-treat repeated measures model to account for missing data. Secondary outcomes included blood pressure (BP) control and outcomes such as percentage of patients who received an action that aligned with the CDS recommendations. The study included 174 PCPs and 2026 patients (mean [SD] age, 75.3 [0.3] years; 1223 [60.4%] female; mean [SD] SBP at baseline, 154.0 [14.3] mm Hg), with 87 PCPs and 1029 patients randomized to the intervention and 87 PCPs and 997 patients randomized to usual care. Overall, 1714 patients (84.6%) were treated for hypertension at baseline. There were 1623 patients (80.1%) with an SBP measurement at 180 days. From the linear mixed model, there was a statistically significant difference in mean SBP change in the intervention group compared with the usual care group (change, -14.6 [95% CI, -13.1 to -16.0] mm Hg vs -11.7 [-10.2 to -13.1] mm Hg; P = .005). There was no difference in the percentage of patients who achieved BP control in the intervention group compared with the control group (50.4% [95% CI, 46.5% to 54.3%] vs 47.1% [95% CI, 43.3% to 51.0%]). More patients received an action aligned with the CDS recommendations in the intervention group than in the usual care group (49.9% [95% CI, 45.1% to 54.8%] vs 34.6% [95% CI, 29.8% to 39.4%]; P < .001). These findings suggest that implementing this computerized CDS system could lead to improved management of uncontrolled hypertension and potentially improved clinical outcomes at the population level for patients with CKD. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03679247.

Empowering Low-Income Patients with Home Blood Pressure Monitors to Improve Hypertension Control.

Effective management of hypertension (HTN) is a priority in primary care. With telehealth now considered a staple care delivery method, uninsured and low-income patients without home blood pressure (BP) monitors may need additional attention and resources to achieve successful HTN control. This prospective study at an underserved community clinic assessed the impact of distributing free BP monitors on patients' HTN control and therapy adherence. Enrollees were randomized into 2 groups, both completing 4 primary care physician (PCP) visits over a 6-month study period. Intervention participants collected home BP readings to report to their PCP and comparison participants completed an equivalent number of visits without having home BP data available for their PCP to review. Both groups completed an initial and final Therapy Adherence Scale (TAS) questionnaire. 263 patients were invited and 200 participants (mean age 50, 60% female, 19% Black, 67% Hispanic) completed the study. Intervention and comparison subjects featured comparable initial BP levels and TAS scores. After adjusting for age, race, ethnicity, sex, presence of diabetes and therapy adherence, intervention participants experienced higher odds of controlled HTN (OR 4.0; 95% Confidence Interval 2.1 to 7.7). A greater proportion of participants achieved BP control in the intervention arm compared with the comparison arm (82% vs 54% of participants, P < .001). TAS scores were higher in the intervention group (Mean = 44.1 vs 41.1; P < .001). The provision of free home BP monitors to low-income patients may feasibly and effectively improve BP control and therapy adherence.

Use of Genomics to Develop Novel Therapeutics and Personalize Hypertension Therapy.

Hypertension is a prevalent public health problem, contributing to >10 million deaths annually. Though multiple therapeutics exist, many patients suffer from treatment-resistant hypertension or try several medications before achieving blood pressure control. Genomic advances offer mechanistic understanding of blood pressure variability, therapeutic targets, therapeutic response, and promise a stratified approach to treatment of primary hypertension. Cyclic guanosine monophosphate augmentation, aldosterone synthase inhibitors, and angiotensinogen blockade with silencing RNA and antisense therapies are among the promising novel approaches. Pharmacogenomic studies have also been done to explore the genetic bases underpinning interindividual variability in response to existing therapeutics. A polygenic approach using risk scores is likely to be the next frontier in stratifying responses to existing therapeutics.

Abstract 137: Post-Stroke Blood Pressure Control and Follow Up Care in Real-World Setting

Introduction: Within 5 years of a stroke, approximately 25% of patients will have a recurrent event. Blood pressure (BP) reduction can reduce this risk; every 10 mmHg decrease in systolic BP is associated with a 20% risk reduction. Despite this benefit, 50% of patients with hypertension remain uncontrolled after a stroke. Reasons for poor control may be related to poor post-stroke follow up care. We aim to quantify post-stroke BP control and follow up in a large health system. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of patients with stroke admitted to Yale New Haven Health System (YNHHS) between 2013-2021. YNHHS has 5 hospitals and a large outpatient network. Eligible patients included those who received primary care within YNHHS, were discharged alive, and not on dialysis. We analyzed patient features, time to outpatient encounter, and vital signs. The primary outcome was uncontrolled BP (&gt;140/90) obtained during the office visit closest to and before 6 months from the date of discharge. Results: During the study period 12,561 patients were admitted with stroke to YNHHS. After exclusions, the final cohort was 2,867 patients. Among these patients, 48 % were male, 65% non-Hispanic White, 22% non-Hispanic Black, 9% Hispanic, and 4% other. Mean (standard deviation) age was 68 (12) years. Approximately 25% of patients had uncontrolled BP. When the updated ACC/AHA (2017) BP goal (&lt;130/80) was applied, the amount of patient with uncontrolled BP increased to 52%. After 6 months, 318 (11%) had no visit with a medical provider, 250 (9%) patients had 1 follow up visit, and 2,299 (80%) patients had &gt;2 follow up visits. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) number of days to first visit with a PCP or neurologist was 30 (10-97) days and 45 (27-99) days, respectively. The median (IQR) number of visits with either a PCP or neurologist was 0 (0-2). Conclusion: Among patients with recent stroke, more than half do not achieve BP control per current guidelines. The majority of patients do not engage with a PCP or neurologist within 6 months following a stroke, even though they have an established provider within the system. Gaps in follow up represents a notable opportunity for improving post-stroke care.

Time to blood pressure control and predictors among patients receiving integrated treatment for hypertension and HIV based on an adapted WHO HEARTS implementation strategy at a large urban HIV clinic in Uganda

In this cohort study, we determined time to blood pressure (BP) control and its predictors among hypertensive PLHIV enrolled in integrated hypertension-HIV care based on the World Health Organization (WHO) HEARTS strategy at Mulago Immunosuppression Clinic in Uganda. From August 2019 to March 2020, we enrolled hypertensive PLHIV aged ≥\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\ge$$\\end{document}18 years and initiated Amlodipine 5 mg mono-therapy for BP (140–159)/(90–99) mmHg or Amlodipine 5 mg/Valsartan 80 mg duo-therapy for BP ≥ 160/90 mmHg. Patients were followed with a treatment escalation plan until BP control, defined as BP < 140/90 mmHg. We used Cox proportional hazards models to identify predictors of time to BP control. Of 877 PLHIV enrolled (mean age 50.4 years, 62.1% female), 30% received mono-therapy and 70% received duo-therapy. In the monotherapy group, 66%, 88% and 96% attained BP control in the first, second and third months, respectively. For patients on duo-therapy, 56%, 83%, 88% and 90% achieved BP control in the first, second, third, and fourth months, respectively. In adjusted Cox proportional hazard analysis, higher systolic BP (aHR 0.995, 95% CI 0.989-0.999) and baseline ART tenofovir/lamivudine/efavirenz (aHR 0.764, 95% CI 0.637–0.917) were associated with longer time to BP control, while being on ART for >10 years was associated with a shorter time to BP control (aHR 1.456, 95% CI 1.126–1.883). The WHO HEARTS strategy was effective at achieving timely BP control among PLHIV. Additionally, monotherapy anti-hypertensive treatment for stage I hypertension is a viable option to achieve BP control and limit pill burden in resource limited HIV care settings.

Nicardipine or Nitroprusside for Postoperative Blood Pressure Control in Infants After Surgery for Congenital Heart Disease: Single-Center Retrospective Noninferiority and Cost Analysis, 2016-2020.

Postoperative hypertension frequently occurs after surgery for congenital heart disease. Given safety concerns when using calcium channel blockers in infants along with the cost and side-effect profile of nitroprusside, we retrospectively assessed our experience of using nicardipine and nitroprusside for postoperative blood pressure control in infants who underwent surgery for congenital heart disease. We also investigated the cost difference between the medications. This study was a single-center retrospective, pre-post chart review of patients who had surgery for congenital heart disease between 2016 and 2020. The primary aim was a noninferiority comparison of achievement of blood pressure goal at 1-hour post-initiation of an antihypertensive agent. Secondary comparisons included achievement of blood pressure goal at 2 hours after medication initiation, Vasoactive-Inotropic Score (VIS), and blood transfusion, crystalloid volume, and calcium needs. Academic quaternary-care center. Infants under 1 year old who required treatment for hypertension with nitroprusside (n = 71) or nicardipine (n = 52) within 24 hours of surgery for congenital heart disease. None. We failed to identify any difference in proportion of patients that achieved blood pressure control at 1-hour after medication initiation (nitroprusside 52% vs. nicardipine 54%; p = 0.86), with nicardipine noninferior to nitroprusside within a 15% margin. Of patients who did not achieve control at 1-hour post-medication initiation, receiving nicardipine was associated with blood pressure control at 2 hours post-medication initiation (79% vs. 38%; p = 0.003). We also failed to identify an association between antihypertensive types and mean VIS scores, blood transfusion volumes, crystalloid volumes, and quantities of calcium administered. Index cost of using nitroprusside was 16 times higher than using nicardipine, primarily due to difference in wholesale cost. In our experience of achieving blood pressure control in infants after surgery for congenital heart disease (2016-2020), antihypertensive treatment with nicardipine was noninferior to nitroprusside. Furthermore, nicardipine use was significantly less expensive than nitroprusside. Our contemporary practice is therefore to use nicardipine in preference to nitroprusside.

Relationship of Blood Pressure, Health Behaviors, and New Diagnosis and Control of Hypertension in the BP-CHECK Study.

Undiagnosed hypertension and uncontrolled blood pressure (BP) are common and contribute to excess cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. We examined whether BP control, changes in BP, and patient behaviors and attitudes were associated with a new hypertension diagnosis. We performed a post hoc analysis of 323 participants from BP-CHECK (Blood Pressure Checks for Diagnosing Hypertension), a randomized diagnostic study of BP measuring methods in adults without diagnosed hypertension with elevated BP recruited from 12 primary care clinics of an integrated health care system in Washington State during 2017 to 2019. All 323 participants returned a positive diagnostic test for hypertension based on 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring and were followed for 6 months. We used linear regression to examine the relationships between a new hypertension diagnosis (primary independent variable) and differences in the change in study outcomes from baseline to 6-month. Mean age of study participants was 58.3 years (SD, 13.1), 147 (45%) were women, and 253 (80%) were of non-Hispanic White race. At 6 months, 154 of 323 (48%) participants had a new hypertension diagnosis of whom 88 achieved target BP control. Participants with a new hypertension diagnosis experienced significantly larger declines from baseline in BP (adjusted mean difference: systolic BP, -7.6 mm Hg [95% CI, -10.3 to -4.8]; diastolic BP, -3.8 mm Hg [95% CI, -5.6 to -2.0]) compared with undiagnosed peers. They were also significantly more likely to achieve BP control by 6 months compared with undiagnosed participants (adjusted relative risk, 1.5 [95% CI, 1.1 to 2.0]). At 6 months, 101 of 323 participants (31%) with a positive ambulatory BP monitoring diagnostic test remained with undiagnosed hypertension, uncontrolled BP, and no antihypertensive medications. Approximately one-third of participants with high BP on screening and ambulatory BP monitoring diagnostic testing remained with undiagnosed hypertension, uncontrolled BP, and no antihypertensive medications after 6 months. New strategies are needed to enhance integration of BP diagnostic testing into clinical practice. URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT03130257.

Hypertension treatment in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review.

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) faces the highest rate of hypertension worldwide. Blood pressure (BP) control rests on the association of lifestyle modification and antihypertensive medicines. We aimed to systematically review antihypertensive strategies implemented in SSA to achieve BP control. A systematic search beginning in 2003 was performed in MEDLINE, COCHRANE and EMBASE. We included only original and observational studies in SSA countries. Thirty studies were included from 11 countries. No study was multinational. The number of patients varied from 111 to 897 (median: 294; IQR: 192-478). Overall, 21% of patients received monotherapy, 42.6% two-drug and 26.6% three-drug combinations. Out of all the strategies, renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blockers were mostly prescribed, followed by diuretics and calcium channel blockers. In monotherapy, RAS blockers were the first to be prescribed. Only 10 articles described antihypertensive strategies beyond triple combinations. BP control was highly variable (range: 16.4 to 61.2%). Multicentre studies performed in several SSA countries are needed to ensure international guidelines actually do improve outcomes in SSA.

Causal Deep Neural Network-Based Model for First-Line Hypertension Management

ObjectiveTo develop and validate a machine learning model that predicts the most successful antihypertensive treatment for an individual. Patients and MethodsThe causal, deep neural network-based model was trained on data from 16,917 newly diagnosed hypertensive patients attending Mayo Clinic’s primary care practices from January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2021. Eligibility criteria included a diagnosis of primary hypertension, blood pressure and creatinine measurements before antihypertensive treatment, treatment within 9 months of diagnosis, and at least 1 year of follow up. The primary outcome was model performance in predicting the likelihood of a successful antihypertensive treatment 1 year from the start of treatment. Treatment success was defined as achieving blood pressure control with no moderate or severe adverse effects. Model validation and guideline agreement was assessed on 1000 patients. ResultsIn the training set of 16,917 participants (60.8±14.7 years; 8344 [49.3%] women), 33.8% achieved blood pressure control without moderate or severe adverse effects for at least a year with initial treatment. The most common treatment was angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (39.1% average success), and the most successful was angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor-thiazide combination (44.4% average success). Our custom-built causal, deep neural network-based model exhibited the highest accuracy in predicting individualized treatment success with a precision of 51.7%, recall of 44.4%, and F1 score of 47.8%. Compared with actual physician practice on the validation set (77.9% agreement), the algorithm aligned with the Eighth Joint National Committee hypertension guidelines 95.7% of the time. ConclusionA machine learning algorithm can accurately predict the likelihood of antihypertensive treatment success and help personalize hypertension management.

Exploring the Iceberg: Detection and Management of Isolated Interrupted Aortic Arch and Associated Hypertension- A Rare Entity

Objectives: Prompt diagnosis and management of hypertension, particularly in younger patients, are crucial to reducing complications, mortality, and expenses. A thorough history and careful physical examination are key steps. This article illustrates one such unusual case that had a subtle presentation and went undiagnosed until it was brought to our attention.&#x0D; Methodology: A 30-year-old male patient with a history of fatigue, poor exercise tolerance, and mild headaches was diagnosed with hypertension. He was commenced on amlodipine and had no family history of cardiac diseases or secondary hypertension. The patient appeared weak and thin, with a BMI of 16.6 kg/m2. His radial pulse was regular and 98 bpm, and his brachial blood pressure was recorded at 190/90 mmHg. Further examination revealed weak lower limb pulses, a radio-femoral delay, and an ankle blood pressure of 100/60 mmHg. A 3/6 systolic murmur was noted at the aortic area. Routine laboratory investigations revealed a chest x-ray showing notching of the ribs and an absent aortic knob. A transthoracic echocardiogram was performed, but it did not provide conclusive results. A CT angiography of the chest revealed a complete interruption of the aorta just below the left subclavian artery in a "rat tail fashion." The aortic valve was normal, and no other aortic or cardiac pathology was found. The patient was diagnosed with IAA type A and surgical correction was suggested. Antihypertensive medication was given to achieve blood pressure control, and surgical correction was done involving end-to-end anastomosis. The patient's postoperative period was uneventful, and at four weeks, his symptoms subsided, and his blood pressure was 130/80 mmHg without antihypertensive medications.&#x0D; Results: The patient had an interrupted Aortic Arch type A and underwent treatment with antihypertensive medications and surgical correction. After a month, symptoms subsided, blood pressure was 130/80 mmHg, and pulses were bilaterally normal. Post-op CT Aortogram showed good anatomic continuity and no complications.&#x0D; Conclusion: Mild symptoms might only be the tip of an iceberg, calling for further exploration. IAA, despite its rarity, should be considered a potential cause of hypertension.

Abstract 15611: Disparities in Hypertension Control Amidst the Pandemic: A Multi-Year Analysis Using Multiple Hospital Database

Introduction: Hypertension, a pervasive global health concern, affects roughly half of US adults and can lead to serious health issues if uncontrolled. This study utilized the Epic Cosmos anonymized database to evaluate blood pressure (BP) control efficacy and related disparities among hypertensive patients from 196 healthcare institutions. Additionally, we explored the pandemic impact on these outcomes. Hypothesis: To evaluate blood pressure (BP) control efficacy and related disparities among hypertensive patients from 196 healthcare institutions using the Epic Cosmos anonymized database. Methods: Using the Epic Cosmos database, hypertension control rates from 2018 to 2022 were evaluated and stratified by patients' socio-demographic profiles. A multivariable logistic regression analysis identified factors associated with BP control rates. Results: In 2022, the study included 13.4 million hypertensive patients aged 18 and older. Of these, 66.0% achieved BP control (BP&lt; 140/90 mm Hg), 31.0% reached stricter control (BP&lt;130/80 mm Hg), and 7.0% had severely uncontrolled hypertension. Control rates were lower among Non-Hispanic Blacks (59.4%) compared to Non-Hispanic Whites (67.5%) with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 0.749 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.746-0.752). Self-pay patients were less likely to achieve control than insured patients (58.8% vs 66.8%, AOR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.78-0.80). BP control rates fluctuated from 2018 to 2022, reflecting the pandemic's impact. Conclusions: The findings highlight suboptimal hypertension control rates and disparities in the US, emphasizing the need for tailored hypertension management initiatives. These should consider identified disparities and ensure accessibility and cultural sensitivity, aligning with the American Heart Association guidelines.

Effectiveness of Valsartan's Single-Pill Combination Therapies on Blood Pressure Control in Hypertensive Patients: Malaysian Single-Centre Real-World Experience.

Uncontrolled hypertension can cause cardiovascular disease and is an important public health issue. Single-pill combination (SPC) therapies possess combined blood pressure (BP)-lowering effect and may improve compliance to treatment. This study assessed the effectiveness of valsartan (Val)-based SPC therapies in achieving BP control in hypertensive patients. This was a retrospective study. Data were extracted from the hybrid medical records of patients from the Institut Jantung Negara (IJN), Malaysia. Adults with established diagnosis of hypertension and on prescription of Val-based SPC therapies as part of routine medical care from 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2018, with ≥ 1 year of follow-up were included. Primary endpoint was proportion of patients achieving therapeutic BP control (BP < 140/90 mmHg). Secondary outcomes included change from baseline (CFB) in systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP), and subgroup analysis was based on baseline SBP categories and presence of diabetes. Study included 409 hypertensive patients. The mean (standard deviation [SD]) age of the population was 65.1 (10.6) years old, with male predominance (61.6%). Proportion of patients achieving target BP between baseline and follow-up were 57.0% (P < 0.001). Mean CFB in SBP and DBP were recorded as 19.52 mmHg and 7.47 mmHg, respectively. Over half of the patients achieved the target BP in all subgroups categorised by SBP at baseline, except the subgroup of SBP 160 mmHg-179 mmHg. SPC therapies were continued in 97.3% of patients at 1-year follow-up. Patients using Val-based SPC therapies had significant reduction in BP with good tolerability, with 57% of patients achieving target BP over a prolonged 1-year follow-up period. Uptake of SPC therapy is warranted to improve patient care and outcomes in hypertension.

Evaluating the hypertension care cascade in middle-aged and older adults in The Gambia: findings from a nationwide survey

Hypertension is a major public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa with poor treatment coverage and high case-fatality rates. This requires assessment of healthcare performance to identify areas where intervention is most needed. To identify areas where health resources should be most efficiently targeted, we assessed the hypertension care cascade i.e., loss and retention across the various stages of care, in Gambian adults aged 35 years and above. This study was embedded within the nationally representative 2019 Gambia National Eye Health Survey of adults ≥35 years. We constructed a hypertension care cascade with four categories: prevalence of hypertension (defined as systolic blood pressure ≥140mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥90mmHg, and/or current use of medication prescribed for hypertension); those aware of their diagnosis; those treated; and those with a controlled blood pressure (defined as blood pressure <140/90mmHg). Analyses were age- and sex-standardised to the population structure of The Gambia. Logistic regression was used to assess the socio-demographic factors associated with prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of hypertension. Of 9171 participants with data for blood pressure, the prevalence of hypertension was 47.0%. Among people with hypertension, the prevalence of awareness was 54.7%, the prevalence of hypertension treatment was 32.5%, and prevalence of control was 10.0% with little difference between urban and rural residence. The cascade of care performance was better in women. However, there was no difference in achieving blood pressure control between men and women who were receiving treatment. Female sex, older age and higher body mass index were associated with higher hypertension awareness whilst having an occupation compared to being unemployed was associated with higher odds of being treated. Patients in the underweight category had higher odds of achieving blood pressure control. There is a high prevalence of hypertension and low performance of the health care system that impact on the hypertension care cascade among middle-aged and older adults in The Gambia. Addressing the full cascade will be paramount especially in reducing the mounting prevalence and improving diagnosis of patients with hypertension, where the greatest dividends will be gained. The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust, Wellcome Trust.

Abstract 004: Process And Health Outcomes Of Patients With Severe Hypertension In A Real-world Setting: Findings From A 12-year Study In A Large Health System

Introduction: Health systems are increasingly leveraging real-world data to improve community health outcomes. Methods: We conducted a longitudinal assessment of health outcomes in patients with severe hypertension using electronic health record data from the Sentara Healthcare System 2010-2021. Severe hypertension was defined as at least two consecutive blood pressure (BP) readings above 160/100 mmHg. We examined follow-up visit rates at 3 and 6 months, and BP control rates (&lt;140/90 mmHg) at 6 and 12 months after the second BP elevation. We also assessed the incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) until the end of 2022. Results: The study included 75,657 patients with severe hypertension. Mean age was 61.5 (13.9) years; 55% were female, 57% were White, 37% were Black, and 21.3% had a history of CVD. The median follow-up time was 3.8 years. Among patients with severe hypertension, 72% and 84% had follow-up visits at 3 and 6 months; 38% and 41% achieved BP control at 6 and 12 months. Among patients without prior history of CVD, 22.5% experienced at least one cardiovascular event during the follow-up, including 8.7% with coronary arteriosclerosis, 11.9% with heart failure, 65.2% with cerebral infarction, and 3.5% with myocardial infarction. The median time to cardiovascular events was 793 days. The risk of CVD was significantly higher in Black and older patients, as well as those with blood pressure levels exceeding 180/120 mmHg. Conclusions: This study successfully identified a longitudinal digital cohort of patients with severe hypertension and linked it to health outcomes. The findings have implications for health systems utilizing real-world data in population health research.

Implementation Strategies to Improve Blood Pressure Control in the United States: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association and American Medical Association.

Hypertension is one of the most important risk factors that contribute to incident cardiovascular events. A multitude of US and international hypertension guidelines, scientific statements, and policy statements have recommended evidence-based approaches for hypertension management and improved blood pressure (BP) control. These recommendations are based largely on high-quality observational and randomized controlled trial data. However, recent published data demonstrate troubling temporal trends with declining BP control in the United States after decades of steady improvements. Therefore, there is a widening disconnect between what hypertension experts recommend and actual BP control in practice. This scientific statement provides information on the implementation strategies to optimize hypertension management and to improve BP control among adults in the United States. Key approaches include antiracism efforts, accurate BP measurement and increased use of self-measured BP monitoring, team-based care, implementation of policies and programs to facilitate lifestyle change, standardized treatment protocols using team-based care, improvement of medication acceptance and adherence, continuous quality improvement, financial strategies, and large-scale dissemination and implementation. Closing the gap between scientific evidence, expert recommendations, and achieving BP control, particularly among disproportionately affected populations, is urgently needed to improve cardiovascular health.

Heart 2 Heart: Pilot Study of a Church-Based Community Health Worker Intervention for African Americans with Hypertension.

African Americans (AAs) have higher prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension than Whites, which leads to reduced life expectancy. Barriers to achieving blood pressure control in AAs include mistrust of healthcare and poor adherence to medication and dietary recommendations. We conducted a pilot study of a church-based community health worker (CHW) intervention to reduce blood pressure among AAs by providing support and strategies to improve diet and medication adherence. To increase trust and cultural concordance, we hired and trained church members to serve as CHWs. AA adults (n = 79) with poorly controlled blood pressure were recruited from churches in a low-income, segregated neighborhood of Chicago. Participants had an average of 7.5 visits with CHWs over 6months. Mean change in systolic blood pressure across participants was - 5mm/Hg (p = 0.029). Change was greater among participants (n = 45) with higher baseline blood pressure (- 9.2, p = 0.009). Medication adherence increased at follow-up, largely due to improved timeliness of medication refills, but adherence to the DASH diet decreased slightly. Intervention fidelity was poor. Recordings of CHW visits revealed that CHWs did not adhere closely to the intervention protocol, especially with regard to assisting participants with action plans for behavior change. Participants gave the intervention high ratings for acceptability and appropriateness, and slightly lower ratings for feasibility of achieving intervention behavioral targets. Participants valued having the intervention delivered at their church and preferred a church-based intervention to an intervention conducted in a clinical setting. A church-based CHW intervention may be effective at reducing blood pressure in AAs.