California's approach to hypertension control: an overview.

California's Department of Health Services, recognizing the serious community health problem presented by uncontrolled hypertension, developed community-based programs of early detection and referral, follow-up and education. Special consideration was given to underserved populations at high risk. A statewide probability household survey was conducted and showed an improvement in control status during the past decade for definite and critical hypertension, but not for mild hypertension. With diminishing public resources, future efforts must be cost effective, focus on care for persons known to have hypertension and encourage maximum coordination between private and public agencies.