Prevalence, treatment and control of hypertension with a differential method of active search

Abstract Background Systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) affects more than 30% of the adult population and is a major risk factor for heart and cerebrovascular injuries, and the third cause of disability. Objective To determine the prevalence of individuals with hypertension and levels of awareness, treatment, and control of the disease, through a differential method of active search. Method A cross-sectional population-based study was carried out with a representative sample of 409 adult individuals, in the area covered by a Basic Health Unit with Family Health Strategy, in the suburb of the southern area of São Paulo. Home visits included anthropometric and blood pressure (BP) measures, and the application of a sociodemographic questionnaire. Results The prevalence of SAH was 42,5%. Most of the hypertensive individuals (94%) were aware of the disease, 95% of them were treated and 48% had the BP under control. Forty-five new cases of hypertension were identified, of which 77% were found in the differential schedule (Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm), representing 27% of hypertensive patients. Conclusion The differential method proved to be efficient as an active search strategy for new cases of hypertension in places where there is an apparent underreporting of this disease.