Hypertension was prevalent in 36.9% of 1,697 Lebanese adults, with overall control achieved in only 27% of patients, highlighting awareness as the most important predictor of treatment.
Cross-Sectional (n=1,697)
Hypertension is highly prevalent in Lebanon with low overall control rates, highlighting awareness as a key target for public health intervention.
The prevalence and factors related to hypertension (HTN) treatment and control are well investigated in the Western world but remain poorly understood in the Middle East and in middle-income countries such as Lebanon. In order to measure the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control rates of HTN in Lebanon, the authors measured blood pressure (BP) in 1697 adults. The prevalence of optimal BP (<120/80 mm Hg) was 33% and that of pre-HTN (BP ≥120/80 mm Hg but <140/90 mm Hg) was 30%. The prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control (among treated hypertensive) rates of HTN were 36.9%, 53%, 48.9%, and 54.2%, respectively. Overall, only 27% of patients with HTN had their BP under control. Awareness was the most important predictor of treatment. No predictor of control could be identified. The authors concluded that HTN is prevalent in Lebanon and its overall control is low. Improving awareness is the most important target for intervention.
Matar et al. (Sat,) conducted a cross-sectional in Hypertension (n=1,697). Hypertension was evaluated on Prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control rates of hypertension. Hypertension was prevalent in 36.9% of 1,697 Lebanese adults, with overall control achieved in only 27% of patients, highlighting awareness as the most important predictor of treatment.