Hypertension and coronary prevention research project

INTERVENTION: It is important to state that this project was originally given approval by the ethics committee at the outset in 1986. It is ongoing, recruitment was less than originally intended, we wish to extend the period of follow‐up from 15 years to an indefinite period for those patients who give their consent. Most formal outcome studies in hypertension last for a maximum of 5 years. By following a smaller number of patients over a longer period, we shall accumulate the necessary number of patient‐years to detect any differences between treatment and answer some of the concerns about long‐term efficacy and safety. The objectives of the hypertension and coronary research project are: 1. To determine whether 15 years of treatment of mild hypertension can reduce the incidence of myocardial infarction 2. To determine which antihypertensive drug is most effective at preventing the complications of hypertension 3. To determine which parameters among both associated risk factors for cardiovascular disease and possible aetiological factors for the development of hypertension can be used to predict whether and which antihypertensive treatment is indicated. Patients are randomised to one of the main classes of antihypertensive drugs and seen at monthly intervals until the blood pressure in controlled, then 2‐yearly. The end points of myocardial infarction, stroke and death are captured at either of these visits or by tagging of the GP and hospital records. The study is conducted in accordance with ICH GCP. CONDITION: Hypertension ; Circulatory System ; Essential (primary) hypertension PRIMARY OUTCOME: Not provided at time of registration SECONDARY OUTCOME: Not provided at time of registration INCLUSION CRITERIA: 700 Subjects (PROJ 08/01/2001).