Publication:

Assessing the dual challenge of hypertension and dyslipidemia comorbidity: a real-world need gap analysis on diagnosis, management, drug therapy and patient related factors

Background Hypertension and dyslipidemia frequently coexist and significantly elevate the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) through shared mechanisms. Despite clear evidence supporting integrated management, real-world gaps persist in diagnosis, monitoring, and patient adherence.

Methods This nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted among 842 healthcare professionals (HCPs) across India to evaluate current clinical practices, challenges, and educational needs in managing this dual comorbidity. A structured 20-item questionnaire captured insights on comorbidity prevalence, diagnostic approaches, therapeutic practices, and barriers to optimal care.

Results The survey revealed substantial coexistence of hypertension and dyslipidemia, with 40.2% of HCPs reporting dyslipidemia in 10-20% of hypertensive patients and 38.8% observing hypertension in 20-30% of dyslipidemic cases. Comorbidity was most prevalent in adults aged 45-60 years (51.9%). Lifestyle factors were the leading contributors (38.3%), followed by age-related factors (25.4%). Despite routine lipid panel use, early diagnosis was hindered by poor follow-up (24.6%), asymptomatic presentation (23.3%), and inadequate screening guidelines (23.0%). Poor patient adherence was identified as the major treatment challenge (54.7%), while guideline sufficiency was divided, with 45.5% rating them adequate and a similar proportion finding them only somewhat sufficient.

Conclusions Overall, the findings highlight substantial unmet needs in the real-world management of hypertension with dyslipidemia. Strengthened patient education, structured lifestyle support programs, regular lipid testing, and enhanced clinician training may improve early detection and long-term outcomes. A more unified, patient-centered approach is essential to reducing the growing cardiometabolic burden in India.