Task force updates blood pressure screening recommendations

by Dr. Lazowski

US Preventive Services Task force has released new recommendations for screening and treatment of hypertension. High blood pressure affects 30% of the adult population. It is the most commonly diagnosed condition at outpatient office visits. High blood pressure is a major risk factor contributing to heart failure, stroke and chronic kidney disease. It is suggested that blood pressure readings taken in the doctor’s office are to be confirmed by measurements outside the clinic before starting the treatment. Annual screening should be done for adults above 40 years of age and for those who are at increased risk for hypertension because they are overweight or obese, and African Americans. Younger individuals with normal blood pressure without other risk factors should be rescreened every 3 to 5 years. New guidelines are available at: http://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/Page/Document/RecommendationStatementFinal/high-blood-pressure-in-adults-screening#Pod2