Uncontrolled blood pressure

Among older people high blood pressure is poorly controlled. Drugs and lifestyle modification can help control high blood pressure (hypertension) yet these measures are not being taken by a majority of those who have the condition.

At the Baylor School of Medicine, Houston, Texas, doctors have surveyed over 16,000 adults over 25 and found that 27 per cent had hypertension.

Of this group, only 23 per cent were taking medication that effectively controlled the condition. Those aged over 65 were less likely to either be aware of hypertension or to be doing something about it. Surprisingly,these people did have health insurance and did see their doctor quite regularly - so lack of medical attention cannot be blamed for their problem.

Given that hypertension is a potent risk factor for both heart disease and stroke, it is important that those concerned, and their doctors, are more aware of the condition, and what can be done to control it.