Factors for Uncontrolled Hypertension among Hypertensive Patients Managed by Physicians Practicing in Metro Manila, Philippines

INTRODUCTION: The prevalence of hypertension has been rising in the Philippines, with the prevalence being highest in Metro Manila. Surveys showed that blood pressure was controlled in only 20% of hypertensive Filipino patients receiving treatment. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to determine factors associated with uncontrolled hypertension among hypertensive Filipinos being managed by physicians practicing in Metro Manila. METHODOLOGY: This is a cross-sectional study involving 1,000 hypertensive patients being treated by 100 physicians in Metro Manila. The patient’s medical records were reviewed, and patients were interviewed, to determine socio-demographics information and 13 patient- and physician-related factors. Based on the last recorded blood pressure, the patients were classified as either having controlled or uncontrolled hypertension. RESULTS: The prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension is 76%. Multivariate analysis showed that poor blood pressure control was associated with the presence of diabetes mellitus (OR 5.50, 95% CI 3.26-9.27); and current use of two or more drugs (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.07-2.31). The use of angiotensin receptor blockers (OR 0.5680, 95% CI 0.40-0.79); the use of branded drugs (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.49-0.98); and treatment supervision by an internist or cardiologist (OR 0.6965, 95% CI 0.4940-0.9818) were associated with good control.