Prevalence of Arterial Hypertension in Altai Krai: Insights From an Epidemiological Study Using the Steps Method

Purpose of the study. The study of the prevalence of arterial hypertension in the Altai Territory aged 18 years and older. Materials and methods. The study included 2 638 people aged 18 years and older, selected by random sampling among the Altai Krai. The criterion for arterial hypertension (AH) was the level of systolic blood pressure (SBP) equal to or greater than 140 mm Hg. Art., diastolic blood pressure (DBP) - 90 mm Hg. Art., or the history of taking antihypertensive drugs according to the results of the questionnaire. Results. The study involved 1291 men (49%) and 1347 women (51%). The mean level of SBP was 127 mm Hg. Art., the average level of DBP is 81 mm Hg. Art. The average prevalence of hypertension among the adult population in the region was 44.1%. The prevalence of hypertension among men is 40.8%, and among women 47.3%. Most residents of the region with AH are informed about it. 85% of all people with hypertension take antihypertensive drugs, of which only half are effectively treated. Conclusion. For the first time, based on the results of an epidemiological study using the STEPS method, a detailed analysis of the prevalence of hypertension was carried out among residents of Altai Krai aged 18 years and older. The distinctive characteristics of the region are increased awareness of the presence of hypertension and adherence to the regimen of taking antihypertensive drugs among people with hypertension. However, it should be noted that only half of the monitoring participants receive effective treatment.