An Oxford University study examining 1.4 million adults has revealed significant challenges in managing high blood pressure in England, according to findings published in BMJ Public Health. The research, which analyzed data from the Our Future Health programme between 2022 and 2025, found that approximately 37% of adults have high blood pressure defined as 140/90 mmHg or higher. Among those with the condition, 59% remain undiagnosed and unaware of their status.
The study also documented that among patients diagnosed and receiving medication through general practitioners, only 50% achieved adequate blood pressure control. Researchers noted that hypertension was substantially more prevalent in men, affecting 42% compared with 29% of women across all age groups, and increased with age. Investigators concluded that current detection and treatment approaches in England require fundamental reassessment to address the scale of the problem.
Dr. Iain Turnbull, a general practitioner and clinical research fellow involved in the research, explained that uncontrolled blood pressure among treated patients may stem from multiple factors. These include the need for dosage adjustments or multiple medications, side effects, complicated treatment regimens, and lifestyle factors such as weight, diet, salt intake, alcohol consumption, and physical activity. He noted that practical and social pressures can also affect medication adherence.
Researchers observed that while substantial improvements in detection and control occurred during the 2000s, progress stalled beginning around 2011. They also identified indications of worsening trends following the Covid-19 pandemic, potentially due to disruptions in healthcare delivery. Experts emphasized the need for population-wide prevention strategies alongside targeted treatment for those at highest cardiovascular risk.
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