May Measurement Month 2019: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Republic of the Congo

The aim of this study was to determine the proportion with hypertension among an opportunistic sample of the population of the Republic of the Congo. Screening was conducted during the period from 15 May to 15 June 2019. Participants included, consenting persons 18 years of age and over, from five cities: Brazzaville, Pointe-Noire, Oyo, Owando, and Ouesso. In total, 3157 participants were screened as part of the campaign. The mean age was 44.7 years (SD: ±14.9), and 47% were male. Based on the total participants, 881 (27.9%) were overweight and 447 (14.2%) were obese. A total of 583 (18.5%) participated in MMM 2017 or 2018 screenings. The proportion with hypertension was 33.5% (n = 1057), 42.6% of those were aware and 37.3% were taking antihypertensive medication. Of the participants on treatment, 62.4% were controlled (<140/90 mmHg). Overall, 23.3% of patients with hypertension were controlled. After imputation, the proportions with hypertension were 30.1% (n = 1475) according to standardized age and sex. Obesity (P < 0.001) and alcohol intake (P < 0.001) were associated with higher BP compared with normal weight and non-drinkers, respectively. With regards to the social disparities of the different regions of Congo, large scale screening is necessary, in order to report the real situation of hypertension. This will improve the overall management policy for this condition in our country.