Characteristics and clinical outcomes of people with hypertension receiving continuous care in Thailand: a cross-sectional study.

Background: Hypertension (HT) is a major global health concern, including in Thailand. The present study aimed to identify the characteristics and clinical outcomes of people with HT receiving continuous care in Thailand in 2018. Methods: We conducted a nationwide cross-sectional study in 2018. People with HT aged 20 years and older receiving medical care at outpatient clinics in the targeted hospitals for at least 12 months were included. Findings: A total of 36,557 people with HT nationwide were enrolled in the current study. 61.5% of the participants were women, and the average age of the participants was 64.7 years. Most participants (53.3%) required two or more antihypertensive medications to control blood pressure (BP). The overall prevalence of BP control (systolic BP, <140 mmHg; diastolic BP, <90 mmHg) was 66.6% and 49.4% at the latest visit and the latest two consecutive times, respectively. BP control rate was lower for people with HT residing in the southern region compared to other regions. The prevalence of achieving the target goal of LDL cholesterol level (<100 mg/dL) was 39.9%, and that of BMI Interpretation: The findings indicated a potential for further improvement in the quality of HT care in Thailand. Accessibility to continuous care among males with HT requires additional responsiveness. BP control rate should be enhanced, especially in the southern region. A coverage of 12-lead ECG screening in people with HT should be increased. Weight management and reduction of LDL cholesterol levels should be encouraged to prevent cardiovascular complications. Funding: National Health Security Office (NHSO) in Thailand.