Sex differences in the antihypertensive treatment and risk of uncontrolled hypertension in 5308 hypertensive patients in the United Arab Emirates.

BACKGROUND Sex differences in the antihypertensive medications used to control blood pressure and risk factor control in hypertensive patients is poorly understood. METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of the patients newly diagnosed with hypertension registered for treatment in 52 outpatient settings across Abu Dhabi province between 1 January and 31 December 2017. We explored sex differences in risk factors and treatment management over 6 months of the follow-up period of each patient. Multiple logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with poor BP control. RESULTS A total of 5308 patients (2559 men and 2849 women) were identified. We observed an increase in SBP and DBP levels in men (1.72/1.13 mmHg) and only SBP in women (0.87/-0.021 mmHg) with increased incidence of comorbidities overtime. The overall BP control was suboptimal (65%) ( 80 beats per minute are less likely to maintain hypertension control. CONCLUSION Sex-specific analysis indicated that BP control among United Arab Emirates men and women was suboptimal (65%). Interventions aiming to achieve better control of BP in hypertensive patients with metabolic syndrome should be emphasized.