May Measurement Month (MMM) program 2021–2024: Results of a community screening program in can Tho city, Vietnam

<h2>Abstract</h2><h3>Problem considered</h3> Hypertension (HTN) remains one of the most pressing global health challenges, straining healthcare systems. The May Measurement Month (MMM) campaign aims to raise blood pressure (BP) awareness and address screening gaps. This study screened volunteers aged ≥18 for HTN and cardiovascular risk factors to assess prevalence, awareness, and management effectiveness. <h3>Methods</h3> This study employed a cross-sectional, opportunistic survey design. Data were collected from adults aged ≥18 years between 2021 and 2024 as part of the MMM initiative. <h3>Results</h3> Among 4105 participants (mean age 53.0 ± 15.3 years), 37.2 % had HTN. Of untreated individuals, 72.5 % were hypertensive, while 53.4 % of treated cases remained uncontrolled (BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg). HTN prevalence rose from 28.9 % (2021) to 47.8 % (2024), with BP control improving to 46.5 % (p < 0.001). HTN was highest in ≥60 years (46.8 %) and lowest in <45 years (15.4 %), while BP control remained stable (33.5 %–35.1 %). Males had higher HTN prevalence, though BP control differences were not significant (p > 0.05). In univariate analyses, HTN was associated with smoking, alcohol use, overweight–obesity, pregnancy, and cardiovascular comorbidities. In the multivariate model from MMM 2021–2024, independent contributors to HTN included older age, heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and physical inactivity, whereas smoking and male sex did not retain statistical significance. <h3>Conclusion</h3> The MMM 2021–2024 campaign, conducted during COVID-19, highlighted the need for BP screening in Vietnam. Despite pandemic challenges, undiagnosed and uncontrolled HTN remain major concerns. Standardized screening like MMM remains crucial for detecting high BP and improving HTN management.