Abstract
BACKGROUND: The WHO recommends a 25% relative reduction in the prevalence of raised blood pressure (RBP) by 2025, considering 2010 as baseline. To monitor the achievement of this target, prevalence of RBP and mean blood pressure were measured in the Italian general adult population within periodic health examination surveys (HESs) conducted within the CUORE Project. METHODS: In 2023 a new HES started including, up to now, data from random samples of residents aged 35-74 years (706 men, 727 women) in 7 Regions (of 20 regions) distributed in North, Centre and South of Italy. Blood pressure was measured at the right arm, in sitting position, by automated oscillometric device using standardized procedures and methods; the average of two measurements performed with 1 minute interval was used for the analysis. RBP is defined as systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure equal or greater than 140/90 mmHg. The survey is funded by the Italian Ministry of Health-CCM. RESULTS: Preliminary analysis shows that prevalence of RBP is 37% (95% Confidence Interval-CI: 30-46%) in men and 23% (17-29%) in women. Mean value of systolic blood pressure is 134 mmHg (133-136 mmHg) in men and 126 mmHg (125-127 mmHg) in women. Mean value of diastolic blood pressure is 80 mmHg (78-81 mmHg) in men and 75 mmHg (74-76 mmHg) in women. Among those with RBP and/or in treatment (49% of men and 39% of women), 35% of men and 19% women are unaware they could have BP control problems, 8% and 9% are aware but not in treatment, 24% and 40% are under treatment and at target, 33% and 22% are under treatment but not at target, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: These preliminary data underline that RBP is still high in the Italian adult population. Significant reductions in RBP prevalence occurred in comparison to previous HES data, 20% from 25 years ago, about 10% from 15 year ago, while a stable trend was found in comparison to 5 years ago. Improvements on RBP awareness and control are still necessary. KEY MESSAGES: • Raised blood pressure is still high in the Italian general adult population. • Implementing periodic HES is fundamental to measure blood pressure and estimate awareness and control of hypertension in the general population.