Hypertension audit in clinical practice based in Thailand (HABIT).

Abstract

This cross-sectional survey aimed to determine blood pressure (BP) control, risk factors, co-morbidities and end-organ damage among Thai hypertensive patients. Between February and April 2007, we enrolled 2007 out-patient hypertensives who were treated for > or =6 months. However, baseline assessment could be obtained from only 1914 cases (male:female = 4:3; mean age: 61.9 +/- 11.7 years) and 1807 cases were eligible for BP evaluation (average BP: 140.45 +/- 19.99 / 77.84 +/- 12.51 mm Hg). Overall BP normalization (BP < 140/90 mmHg) was 51%, but it was 44% when diabetic patients whose BP's had to be < 130/80 mmHg were taken into account. Common risk factors/co-morbidities were hypercholesterolemia (66%), metabolic syndrome (36%), diabetes mellitus (35%) and obesity (32%). Monotherapy was found in 26%, 2 medications in 44% and > or =3 medications in 29%. Calcium channel blockers were prescribed in 49%, diuretics in 45%, beta-blockers in 44% and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in 38%. Three quarters of physicians were aware of target blood pressure according to the latest hypertension guidelines. In conclusion, BP normalization rate in 2007 audit was better than in the 2003 audit (51% vs. 44%). Campaigns targeting the commonest risk factors, hypercholesterolemia and metabolic syndrome, should be a priority.