Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) including stroke are the leading causes of death in Canada. High blood pressure or hypertension affects about 22% of Canadian adults and is a modifiable risk factor for heart disease, stroke and kidney disease.

The prevalence of high blood pressure increases with age.


Despite efforts to overcome barriers to blood pressure monitoring and management, high blood pressure remains one of the most significant health problems facing Canadians.

Blood pressure can be challenging to monitor because of its natural fluctuations. Some patients have artificially elevated readings in their doctor's office if they are nervous or rushed, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment decisions. Self-monitoring can also produce inaccurate readings, and results may not always be available to the doctor. Taking blood pressure measurements outside the primary care setting by trained volunteers, in surroundings familiar to participants, can improve the accuracy of blood pressure readings. CHAP "closes the loop" by ensuring that blood pressure readings and participant-reported CVD and stroke risk factors are forwarded directly to family physicians. Therefore, the program will help to identify and monitor individuals who are at risk for CVD and stroke by ensuring adequate treatment and follow-up from the appropriate health professional.

For more information about high blood pressure (hypertension), please visit hypertension.ca, a website representing the three key organizations in hypertension in Canada.

If you would like to assess your blood pressure, please visit The Heart and Stroke Foundation: My Blood Pressure Action Plan.