Predictors of Awareness, Treatment and Control of Hypertension among Filipino Americans in New York and New Jersey

Background/Significance Filipino Americans have been shown to have one of the highest rates of hypertension in the US, with a rate of 27% on the 2004-2006 National Health Interview Survey. Yet, few studies have examined awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension among FAs. AsPIRE (Asian American Partnerships in Research and Empowerment) is a community-based participatory research project to improve health access and cardiovascular health status for Filipinos in New York City (NYC) and Jersey City (JC), New Jersey. Methods: The study sample was drawn from community-based screenings conducted in NYC and JC from 2006-2010. Analyses were performed on 1005 FAs who self-reported a physician-diagnosed HTN, were taking antihypertensive medication, and/or presented with high blood pressure measurements. Chi-square tests assessed group differences, and logistic regression determined significant predictors of HTN awareness, treatment and control. Results: 66% were identified as aware of their HTN status due to self-reported HTN diagnosis and/or current antihypertensive medication use. 34% presented with high blood pressure readings with no previous HTN diagnosis and no use of antihypertensive medication. Among individuals aware of their HTN, 79% reported currently taking antihypertensive medication and among those on medication, 68% had uncontrolled HTN. This presentation highlights significant predictors and factors associated with HTN awareness, treatment, and control. Conclusions: These findings suggest the need for increased efforts to improve awareness, treatment, and control for populations burdened with HTN. Community-based screenings, behavioral, and clinical interventions such as community health workers can address the variables that influence HTN awareness, treatment, and control for hypertensive individuals.