Hypertension prevalence and control in selected townships of Lingcheng District, Dezhou City, China: a cross-sectional study

Despite the increasing prevalence of hypertension (HTN) in China, the rates of treatment and control remain uncertain. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control rates of HTN in selected townships. From May 1, 2024, to July 31, 2024, a random sampling survey was conducted involving 11,600 adult residents across seven community health service centers in Lingcheng District, Dezhou City, Shandong Province, China. Following a standardized rest period of 5 to 10 min, trained healthcare professionals measured blood pressure using a validated oscillometric monitor. According to the 2024 Chinese guidelines for HTN, HTN is defined as a systolic blood pressure (SBP) of ≥ 140 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of ≥ 90 mmHg, as well as individuals with a self-reported history of HTN who are currently taking antihypertensive medication. Normal-high blood pressure (NHBP) is characterized by an SBP of 120 to 139 mmHg or a DBP of 80 to 89 mmHg in the absence of antihypertensive medication. HTN control is defined as blood pressure readings of < 140/90 mmHg. Additionally, the prevalence and control rate of HTN were estimated using a cutoff of 130/80 mmHg, in accordance with the 2025 American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology High Blood Pressure Guideline. The age-adjusted prevalence of HTN was 32.2%, while the age-adjusted prevalence of NHBP was 30.9%. Among patients diagnosed with HTN, the age-adjusted awareness rate was 57.4%, the treatment rate was 50.0%, and the control rate was 38.0%. Of those receiving treatment, 56.1% were prescribed a single antihypertensive medication, 31.7% required a combination of two drugs, and 12.2% needed three or more antihypertensive medications. According to the 2025 American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology guideline, the age-adjusted prevalence of HTN was 57.3%, with a control rate of only 14.7%. This cross-sectional study indicated a high prevalence of HTN in selected townships of Lingcheng District. Although the awareness, treatment, and control rates of HTN have improved, they remain significantly below the desired levels. This finding underscores the substantial challenges associated with HTN management at the grassroots level.