Six-item self-administered questionnaires in the waiting room: an aid to explain uncontrolled hypertension in high-risk patients seen in general practice.

We designed a cross-sectional study to determine whether 6-item self-administered questionnaires addressing difficulties in taking treatment provide independent and relevant information on uncontrolled hypertension in high-risk cardiovascular patients seen in general practice. Patients with both treated hypertension and a history of vascular diseases-myocardial infarction, stroke, or peripheral artery disease-were included. Risk factors, treatment, history of vascular diseases, blood pressure, and difficulties in taking treatment were assessed by 6-item self-administered questionnaires and recorded.

Poor blood pressure control in general practice: in search of explanations.

Background: Arterial hypertension is managed mainly by general practitioners. The blood pressure level of most patients treated in a general practice setting is greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg.

Aims: To understand why a blood pressure level greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg does not lead to a change of treatment.