Health
Most adults with high blood pressure in England remain undiagnosed, study indicates
The Guardian reports that an Oxford University study found major gaps in hypertension detection and management across England.
The short version
- An Oxford University study of 1.4 million adults found that 59% of people in England with hypertension are undiagnosed.[The Guardian]
- Among adults diagnosed with high blood pressure and taking GP-prescribed medication, half still do not have their condition under control.[The Guardian]
- Researchers concluded that England's current approach to detecting and managing high blood pressure is not fit for purpose.[The Guardian]
- Study limitations include relying on a single blood pressure reading per participant and lacking independent medication prescribing records.[The Guardian]
Key facts
- An Oxford University study of 1.4 million adults enrolled in Our Future Health found 59% of people with hypertension in England are undiagnosed.[The Guardian]
- Among adults diagnosed and prescribed medication via a GP, 50% still have uncontrolled blood pressure.[The Guardian]
- Overall, 37% of adults in the study were found to have high blood pressure, defined as 140/90 mmHg or higher.[The Guardian]
- Hypertension was found to be nearly 50% more common in men (42%) than in women (29%).[The Guardian]
What remains uncertain
- The study relied on blood pressure readings taken on a single day, which may not accurately reflect an individual's typical blood pressure, and lacked independent prescribing records to confirm medication compliance.[The Guardian]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.