If only cardiologists did properly measure blood pressure - Blood pressure recordings in daily practice and clinical trials

Blood pressure (BP) is often measured sloppily, not only in clinical practice, where seemingly more important cardiovascular information, such as ejection fraction, cardiac output, and wedge pressure, is available, but also in clinical trials. Yet, definite conclusions often hinge on accurate BP measurements. In the Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation (HOPE) study, the conclusion of the benefits being relatively independent of BP was challenged by 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring in a subgroup that documented a larger fall in BP than reported in the whole population. Whether measured in office or clinical trials, BP is an important clinical tool that should be treasured by practitioners and clinical investigators alike. (C) 2002 by the American College of Cardiology Foundation.