Use of Medications and Lifestyles of Hypertensive Patients with High Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Rural China

BACKGROUND: Hypertension, with a global prevalence of 40%, is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). We conducted an exploratory study in Zhejiang China to understand the prevention of CVD among hypertensive patients with a 10 year CVD risk of 20% or higher. We assessed current practices in a rural ‘township hospital’ (a primary care facility), and compared them with international evidence-based practice. METHODS: A questionnaire survey was conducted to examine the use of modern drugs (antihypertensive drugs, statins and aspirin) and traditional drugs, compliance to medications and lifestyle among 274 hypertensive patients aged 40-74, with a CVD risk of 20% or higher (using the Asian Equation). RESULTS: The majority (72%) were diagnosed with hypertension at township hospitals. Only 15% of study participants used two anti-hypertensive drugs, 0.7% took statin and 2.9% aspirin. Only 2.9% combined two types of modern drugs, while 0.4% combined three types (antihypertensives, statins and aspirin). Herbal compounds, sometimes with internationally rarely recommended drugs such as Reserpine were taken by 44%. Analysis of drug adherence showed that 9.8% had discontinued their drug therapy by themselves. 16% had missed doses and these were on less anti-hypertensive drugs than those who did not (t=-5.217, P=0.003). Of all participants, 28% currently smoked, 39% drank regularly and only 21% exercised frequently. The average salt intake per day was 7.1 (±3.8) g, while the national recommended level is 6g. CONCLUSION: The study revealed outdated and inadequate treatment and health education for hypertensive patients, especially for those who have high risk scores for CVD. There is a need to review the community-based guidelines for hypertension management. Health providers and patients should make a transition from solely treating hypertension, towards prevention of CVD. Health system issues need addressing including improving rural health insurance cover and primary care doctors’ capacity to manage chronic disease patients.