[Awareness, Treatment and Control of Hypertension in Population Aged 16 to 90 Years Old in the Valencia Region, Spain, 2010].

OBJECTIVE: Hypertension is an important risk factor in terms of mortality attributable and the main modifiable cardiovascular risk factor. The aim of the study is to estimate the degree of awareness, treatment and control of hypertension in population of Valencia Region and identify predictors that explain the lack of proper control.

METHODS: Cross-sectional population-based study in 413 men and 415 women between 16 and 90 years participants in Nutrition Survey of Valencia held in 2010. Automatic sphygmomanometer was used for taking blood pressure. Hypertension was defined according to the criteria of 2007 European Society of Hypertension and the European Society of Cardiology. Data on knowledge and treatment were obtained by survey. Predictors for awareness, treatment and control of hypertension were estimated by logistic regression models.

RESULTS: The prevalence of hypertension estimated for the study population was 38.2% (95% CI: 34.9%-41.5%). 51.4% (95% CI: 45.9%-57.0%) of the hypertensive population, knew his condition. 88.8% of them (95% CI: 83.9%-93.6%) were receiving drug therapy and of these, 45.1% (95% CI: 36.9%-53.3%) maintained blood pressure controlled.

CONCLUSIONS: Since the last survey in Valencia Region, the degree of awareness of hypertension has not improved although an increase in those treated with antihypertensive drugs is observed.