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Prevalence of self-reported hypertension increased from 2005 to 2009
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From 2005 to 2009, the prevalence of self-reported hypertension among US adults increased from 25.8% to 28.3%. In addition, there was a concomitant increase in antihypertensive medication use, from 61.1% to 62.6%, according to population data published in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
The new data reveal wide variation among US states in the prevalence self-reported hypertension and antihypertensive medication use.
- From 2005 to 2009, nearly every state had an increase in the prevalence of self-reported hypertension.
- In 2005, the proportion of self-reported hypertension ranged from 21.1% in Colorado to 33.5% in Mississippi. In 2009, it ranged from 20.9% in Minnesota to 35.9% in Mississippi.
- In 2009, the prevalence of self-reported antihypertensive medication use ranged from 52.3% in California to 74.1% in Tennessee.
Overall, in 2009, self-reported hypertension was higher in southern states and lower in western states. A similar regional trend was observed in the proportion of adults reporting use of antihypertensive medications. States with significant increases in medication use from 2005 to 2009 included California, Iowa and Michigan; Kentucky, Nebraska and Rhode Island recorded significant decreases in medication use during the study period.
Between 2005 and 2009, the prevalence of self-reported hypertension increased for all sociodemographic subgroups. Self reports were higher among adults aged 65 years and older, men, blacks and those with less than a high school education. Older adults, women and blacks were more likely to use antihypertensive medication.
The data come from an analysis by CDC researchers of state-level trends in self-reported hypertension and treatment among US adults. The researchers used 2005-2009 data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, for which participants are surveyed via telephone. Questions on hypertension are asked in odd-numbered years. The total number of respondents was 432,617 in 2009, 430,912 in 2007 and 356,112 in 2005.
“Increased knowledge of the differences in self-reported prevalence of hypertension and use of antihypertensive medications by state can help in guiding programs to prevent heart disease, stroke and other complications of uncontrolled hypertension, including those conducted by state and local public health agencies and health care providers,” the researchers wrote in the report.
For more information:
Fang J. MMWR. 2013;62(13):237-244.