A systematic review found no primary research evaluating the impact of different hypertension screening frequencies on the incidence of hypertension-related complications, highlighting a lack of direct evidence.
Systematic Review (n=15,495)
What is the optimal frequency of blood pressure measurement for hypertension screening in adults?
There is a significant lack of primary evidence regarding the optimal frequency for hypertension screening in adults, with current guidelines relying mostly on expert opinion.
Abstract Background Blood pressure measurement for hypertension (HTN) screening is routine practice in primary care. The question remains regarding the optimal frequency of measurement to ensure accurate diagnosis while avoiding unnecessary repeated assessments. Aim To determine the optimal frequency of HTN screening in adults. Methods A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, and LiSSa databases were searched using standardized search strategies. The selection process was illustrated using a PRISMA 2020 flow diagram. Included studies were summarized in tables and qualitatively synthesized. The risk of bias of the included studies was assessed using the JBI critical appraisal tools. The initial search was conducted in April 2024, with an updated search performed in January 2026. To improve search sensitivity, an additional targeted search using controlled vocabulary and free-text terms was conducted in May 2026 in PubMed and Embase. Results Two studies were identified through database searches: a prospective cohort study assessing blood pressure variability over time to determine the optimal screening interval for HTN, and a case–control study comparing the sensitivity and specificity of blood pressure measurement at each visit with those of annual measurement for HTN diagnosis. Six additional guideline publications were analyzed to provide an overview of existing international recommendations on this topic. Existing recommendations overall correspond to grade C-level recommendations, largely based on expert opinion. Conclusion There is a paucity of primary research specifically addressing the optimal frequency of HTN screening. No study evaluating the impact of different screening frequencies on the incidence of HTN-related complications was identified. Available evidence is therefore limited and indirect.
Daguisy et al. (Wed,) conducted a systematic review in Hypertension (n=15,495). Hypertension screening frequency vs. Alternative screening frequencies was evaluated on Impact of different screening frequencies on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality or other health complications. A systematic review found no primary research evaluating the impact of different hypertension screening frequencies on the incidence of hypertension-related complications, highlighting a lack of direct evidence.