The effect of scheduled monitoring appointment on hypertension screening

Abstract

Hypertension (HT) poses a silent threat as a leading risk factor for chronic non-communicable diseases, specifically cardiovascular diseases, the primary cause of global mortality. Consequently, comprehensive screening for hypertension is crucial to enable early diagnosis and proactive management, thus preventing cardiovascular complications. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a follow-up strategy for individuals with high blood pressure, comparing those who received scheduled blood pressure monitoring appointments with those who did not. A randomized controlled trial design was employed with a total of 215 participants. The study was conducted from July 15, 2021, to October 15, 2021. Data analysis involved inferential statistics, included Chi-square test and Fisher’s Exact test, and descriptive statistic. Results indicated that the control group (participants without follow-up appointments), 16 out of 108 individuals (14.81%) were newly diagnosed hypertension. In comparison, the experimental group (participants with follow-up appointments), 36 out of 107 individuals (33.64%) received the diagnosis. Offering scheduled blood pressure monitoring appointments significantly increased access to diagnosis and management of hypertension for individuals with blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg, with a risk ratio of 2.27 [95%CI 1.34-3.83]. As conclusion, pre-hypertensive individuals should be recommended for regular follow-up appointments for all cases.

Keywords : Hypertension screening, Monitoring appointment on hypertension, Hypertension