Pilot Results of a Digital Hypertension Self-management Program Among Adults With Excess Body Weight: Single-Arm Nonrandomized Trial

Abstract

BackgroundHome-measured blood pressure (HMBP) in combination with comprehensive medication support and lifestyle change are the mainstays of evidence-based hypertension (HTN) management. To date, the precise components needed for effective HTN self-management programs have yet to be defined, and access to multicomponent targeted support for HTN management that include telemonitoring remain inaccessible and costly. ObjectiveThe aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the impact of a digital HTN self-management program on blood pressure (BP) control among adults with excess body weight. MethodsA single-arm, nonrandomized trial was performed to evaluate a digital HTN self-management program that combines comprehensive lifestyle counseling with HTN education, guided HMBP, support for taking medications, and led by either a registered nurse or certified diabetes care and education specialist. A sample of 151 participants were recruited using a web-based research platform (Achievement Studies, Evidation Health Inc). The primary outcome was change in systolic BP from baseline to 3 months, and secondary outcomes included change in diastolic BP and medication adherence. ResultsParticipants’ mean age was 44.0 (SD 9.3) years and mean BP was 139/85 mm Hg. At follow-up, systolic and diastolic BP decreased by 7 mm Hg (P<.001, 95% CI –9.3 to –4.7) and 4.7 mm Hg (P<.001, 95% CI –6.3 to –3.2), respectively. Participants who started with baseline BP at goal remained at goal. For participants with stage 1 HTN, systolic and diastolic BP decreased by 3.6 mm Hg (P=.09, 95% CI –7.8 to 0.6) and 2.5 mm Hg (P=.03, 95% CI –4.9 to –0.3). Systolic and diastolic BP decreased by 10.3 mm Hg (P<.001, 95% CI –13.4 to –7.1) and 6.5 mm Hg (P<.001, 95% CI –8.6 to –4.4), respectively, for participants with stage 2 HTN. Medication adherence significantly improved (P=.02). ConclusionsThis pilot study provides initial evidence that a digital HTN self-management program improves BP and medication adherence.