Medication Use and Blood Pressure Control in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Mette Brekke, Steinar Hunskaar, Jørund Straand
Primary Institution: University of Oslo, Norway; University of Bergen, Norway
Hypothesis
What factors predict the use of antihypertensive and lipid-lowering medications in elderly individuals?
Conclusion
One third of 70–74 year old individuals used antihypertensive drugs, but only about one third of those treated achieved the target blood pressure level.
Supporting Evidence
- One third of respondents used one or more antihypertensive drugs.
- Only around one third of those treated reached a target BP-level of less than 140/90 mm Hg.
- Diabetes and cardiovascular disease in oneself or relatives correlated with treatment.
- Mean blood pressure was lower in respondents not on treatment.
Takeaway
Many older people take medicine to lower their blood pressure, but not everyone is getting their blood pressure down to the right level.
Methodology
A health survey with a self-administered questionnaire and health check-up was conducted among 4,338 individuals aged 70-74 in Hordaland, Norway.
Potential Biases
Potential recall bias in self-reported medication use.
Limitations
Non-respondents may have poorer health and higher drug use, and self-reported drug use may be inaccurate.
Participant Demographics
Participants were 70-74 years old, with a mix of men and women.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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