Prevalence and correlates of uncontrolled hypertension and cardiovascular morbidity among patients with hypertension at the largest tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Introduction: Hypertension is the leading preventable cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality globally, with a disproportionate impact on low-income and middle-income countries like Sri Lanka. Effective blood pressure (BP) control improves outcomes in patients with hypertension. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension, and its correlates among Sri Lankan patients with hypertension in clinic settings. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done at the largest tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka and patients with hypertension presenting to its medical clinics over a 6-month period were recruited. An interviewer-administered questionnaire captured sociodemographic, morbidity, and medication details from records. BP measurements were taken following standard guidelines with OMRON-X7 BP monitors. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify significant associations (P < 0.05). Results: Among 600 patients (mean age 64 ± 9 years, 43% men), 55% had uncontrolled hypertension. Most (62%) were on 1 or 2 antihypertensives, primarily renin–angiotensin blockers (91%), with minimal (<10%) thiazide use. Uncontrolled hypertension was less common among furosemide (10.5%) and spironolactone (21.5%) users but frequent among those on alpha-blockers (16.3%). Coronary artery disease (58%), heart failure (9%), and stroke (17%) were more common in men and those with longstanding hypertension. Beta-blockers were favoured in those with cardiac comorbidities, and dihydropyridines in those with stroke. Potential treatment resistance, seen in 11%, was associated with increased cardiac morbidity, while sociodemographic factors and family history had no significant impact on BP control or cardiovascular morbidity. Conclusion: Uncontrolled hypertension and cardiovascular morbidity were highly prevalent. The data suggest the need for optimized antihypertensive regimens, with reduced use of alpha-blockers and early and prioritized incorporation of diuretics.