Speaker Abstract

Cost Effectiveness of Blood Pressure Monitoring and Control

Arun Chockalingam, Manager, Dissemination and Professional Liaison Section, Adult Health Division, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 1B4.

High blood pressure (HBP) or hypertension (HT) is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and it affects nearly one fourth of the world population. In Canada prevalence is estimated at 22% of the adult population [26% M and 18% in F]. Numerous studies have confirmed that control of HT directly translates to reduced incidence of CVD and stroke. Fundamental problem is 'awareness' of one's HBP status. Despite significant work in Canada, HT awareness is still poor. Canadian Heart Health Surveys reported: 42% 'unaware', 19% not treated and not controlled, 23% treated and not controlled, and only 16% treated and controlled. Improper measurement of BP could lead to a high healthcare burden. A person could be on treatment for lifetime, if over estimated or leaves the person exposed to unexpected premature CVD if underestimated. Treatment of BP at the community level through non-pharmacological methods have shown to be highly cost effective. Even, in those with established hypertension, drug treatment has proven to be very efficient and cuts down future hospitalization costs and premature deaths. Treated hypertensives have been shown to have better disability adjusted life years (DALYs).