3081.0: Monday, November 13, 2000 - 2:35 PM

Abstract #5174

Hypertension awareness, treatment and control among Chippewa and Menominee Indians: The Inter-Tribal Heart Project

Verna L. Lamar Welch, PhD, MPH1, Michele Casper, PhD1, Kurt Greenlund, PhD1, Stephen Rith-Najarian, MD2, and Janet Croft, PhD1. (1) Cardiovascular Hlth Branch, Division of Adult & Community Hlth, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention & Hlth Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway, NE, Mailstop K-47, Atlanta, GA 30341, 770-488-2547, VXL3@CDC.GOV, (2) Bemidji Area Office, Indian Health Service, 522 Minnesota Avenue, NW, Bemidji, MN 56601

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among American Indians and Alaska Natives and varies considerably by tribe and region. The Inter-Tribal Heart Project (ITHP) was designed to determine the prevalence of CVD risk factors in two Chippewa tribes and one Menominee tribe because of their high CVD mortality rates. A random sample of 1370 individuals 25 and older participated in ITHP. The prevalence of hypertension (systolic blood pressure (SBP)=140mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure (DBP)=90mmHg and/or currently taking antihypertensive medications) was 31% (men=38%, women=27%). Approximately 75% (men=74%, women=76%) of hypertensives reported being told by a health professional that they have hypertension (awareness). Among hypertensives, 59% (men=55%, women=62%) reported currently using antihypertensive medications (treated). Twenty-eight percent (men=22%, women=32%) had their blood pressure under control (SBP<140mmHg and DBP<90mmHg). The prevalence of hypertension among those with diabetes was significantly higher than those with normal glucose tolerance (54% versus 23%, p=0.001). Moreover, 60% of participants with diabetes had blood pressure values in excess of the treatment goal of £ 130/85. The high prevalence of hypertension and low prevalence of control suggests that programs that target prevention and control are urgently needed. These programs should include pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic approaches and culturally appropriate programs that incorporate beliefs about hypertension causation, manifestations and treatment among American Indians in an attempt to reduce their burden of hypertension.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to describe the prevalence of hypertension awareness, treatment and control among American Indians

Keywords: American Indians, Hypertension

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 128th Annual Meeting of APHA