Written question asked by Helen Clark (Labour) on Wednesday, 2 May 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 9 May 2001. It was answered by John Denham (Labour) on Wednesday, 9 May 2001 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, if he will investigate the effectiveness of introducing blood pressure screening programmes.

Answer: Mrs. Brinton: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will investigate the effectiveness of introducing blood pressure screening programmes. [160540] Mr. Denham: The National Service Frameworks for Coronary Heart Disease and Older People give clear guidance on the control of blood pressure. The National Service Framework for Coronary Heart Disease sets out a requirement for people at risk of cardiovascular disease to be offered advice and treatment on a range of risk factors, including maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. By April 2003, clinical audit data no more than 12 months old will be available on the use of this and other interventions. The National Service Framework for Older People stresses the importance of maintaining a healthy blood pressure. By April 2004, primary care groups and trusts will have ensured that every general practice, using protocols agreed with local specialist services, can identify and treat patients identified as being at risk of stroke because of high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation or other risk factors. The United Kingdom National Screening Committee is awaiting the publication of the next health technology assessment report on blood pressure and will consider any wider screening issues on receipt of that report.

Secondary information