Comparative Effectiveness Research

Self-measured blood pressure monitoring to manage hypertension may offer a small benefit

Self-measured blood pressure (SMBP) monitoring to manage hypertension may offer a small benefit, but its sustainability and long-term consequences remain uncertain, conclude two new research summaries published by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). The reports examine monitoring options available for measuring high blood pressure (hypertension). The consumer and clinician summaries are based on the research review, Self-Measured Blood Pressure Monitoring: Comparative Effectiveness.

The consumer summary, Measuring Your Blood Pressure at Home: A Review of the Research for Adults, describes hypertension and how blood pressure is monitored. The summary can assist patients to understand the importance of measuring blood pressure, and how to choose a home blood pressure monitor. The clinician summary, Effectiveness of Self-Measured Blood Pressure Monitoring in Adults with Hypertension, provides background information on hypertension, conclusions of the research review, and the clinical bottom line of SMBP. 

Hypertension is a common chronic health condition, especially for adults over 65 years of age. Approximately, 76.4 million Americans have hypertension. And an estimated seven million people die each year in the United States from illnesses caused by hypertension. Related serious health problems range from heart failure and heart attacks to kidney failure. Lowering high blood pressure can reduce these risks.

This research review, consumer summary, and clinician summary are accompanied by a continuing medical education activity and faculty slide set for health care professionals interested in receiving education credits. To access this review and other materials that explore the effectiveness and risks of treatment options for various conditions visit AHRQ's Effective Health Care Program Web site, http://www.effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov.

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