SCREENING FOR HYPERTENSION IN SHELTERED HOMELESS ADULTS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Introduction: Uncontrolled hypertension is one of the main risk factors of disability and premature mortality in homeless population The aim of the study was to screen for hypertension and explore the factors associated with uncontrolled hypertension in sheltered homeless adults during COVID-19 pandemic Methods: Semi-structured individual interviews and objective measurements of blood pressure were used to screen for hypertension and risk factors Screening was part of the health survey conducted in the largest shelter for homeless people in eastern region of Slovakia “Oaza - nadej pre novy život” in Bernatovce from May to August 2020 Results: Screening of hypertension was conducted in 135 homeless people The prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension was 41% (N=55) with more than half of the patients (N=30) having the values of blood pressure 160/100 mmHG and more Pharmacological treatment was initiated in 24 patients and decreased of blood pressure was documented in nine patients after three months of treatment Lack of access to specialized health care, unhealthy living conditions, psychosocial stress and low adherence to medication were factors associated with high prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension Conclusion: Multidisciplinary approach with integration of health and social services with active outreach to homeless people has the potential to address the complex needs of homeless people and improve their health and quality of life © 2020 All Rights Reserved