Top 5 Takeaways

1. Stable Hypertension Prevalence: From 2017 to 2021, about one-third of U.S. adults reported having diagnosed hypertension, with no significant change in prevalence over the period.
2. Increase in Medication Use: The prevalence of antihypertensive medication use among those with hypertension increased by approximately 3 percentage points, from 59.8% to 62.9%.
3. Sociodemographic Disparities: Hypertension prevalence and medication use varied significantly by age, sex, race, ethnicity, and education level, highlighting ongoing health disparities.
4. Geographical Variations: State-level data revealed differences in both hypertension prevalence and medication use, with higher rates generally found in southeastern and Appalachian states.
5. Public Health Implications: The findings underscore the importance of continued efforts to reduce hypertension prevalence, increase medication adherence, and address health disparities across different communities.

Original Article Author and Citation

Corresponding Author

Ahlia Sekkarie, PhD, asekkarie@cdc.gov .

Suggested Citation

Sekkarie A, Fang J, Hayes D, Loustalot F. Prevalence of Self-Reported Hypertension and Antihypertensive Medication Use Among Adults — United States, 2017–2021. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2024;73:191–198. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7309a1.

Summary

This article reports on the prevalence of self-reported hypertension and the use of antihypertensive medication among U.S. adults from 2017 to 2021. The study reveals that approximately one-third of adults reported diagnosed hypertension, with a slight increase in antihypertensive medication use during the period. Significant disparities exist based on sociodemographic characteristics and geographical location.

Methods

The study analyzed data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), focusing on adults aged ≥18 years. Hypertension was self-reported, and antihypertensive medication use was assessed through survey questions. Prevalence estimates were age-standardized, and differences were evaluated using logistic regression models.

Discussion

The findings indicate stable hypertension prevalence but an increase in medication use among those diagnosed. Disparities by demographic and geographic factors suggest targeted public health interventions may be needed to address inequalities and improve hypertension control.

Conclusion

Despite stable hypertension prevalence, the increase in medication use signals progress in hypertension management. However, persistent disparities underscore the need for targeted interventions to improve health outcomes and reduce inequities.

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