[The "Ashkelon" hypertension detection and follow-up program].
The program described aims at enhancing awareness of high blood pressure and other risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and promoting a healthy lifestyle. The study population consisted of 11,000 workers at worksites and visitors to community centers, aged 25-65 years. The program was carried out in cooperation with primary care clinics and non-pharmacological control of high blood pressure was by a community center for prevention of CVD. In 1980, 56.0% of hypertensives were unaware of their condition, while by 1988 this was reduced to 6.1%. Body weight reduction resulted in lowering of blood pressure which enabled cessation of all antihypertensive treatment in 25%. Deep muscle relaxation enabled cessation in 47%. The savings effected in terms of antihypertensive treatment outweight the total cost of the program 3-fold.
WHO Collaborative Center for Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Medical Dept. B, Ashkelon.
J R
JR
Viskoper
G
G
Ginsburg
S
S
Sherf
S
S
Oren
L
L
Bregman
J
J
Mishal
D000328:Adult; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000628:therapy; D007557:Israel; D008403:Mass Screening; D008875:Middle Aged; D012064:Relaxation Therapy; D015431:Weight Loss
D000959:Antihypertensive Agents