Another what!!! Blood pressure this time

Treating hypertension with guidelines in general practice

Their findings were that 'Shockingly, we have found that the Framingham data in no way supported the current paradigm to which they gave birth. In fact, these data actaully statistically reject the linear model.'

I think many GPs across the country will find resonance with Campbell and Murchie's views. Our otherwise well patients come to see us, have their blood pressure measured and many start on a medical treadmill of investigations, "treatments" and side effects.

These otherwise well people become ill - "I suffer with high blood pressure, Doctor".

They develop swollen ankles, lethargy, impotence, headaches, hot flushes, gout, electrolyte imbalances etc. They have blood tests and ECGs.

For all of the iatrogenic suffering, most people will not benefit from lowering of their blood pressure, or cholesterol for that matter.

The only people who are benefitting from this are the 1 in however many who are needed to treat, the researchers making a name and a career for themselves and of course the big drug companies.

But, I have to go now and meet my Quality Framework targets!