by Prateek Chopra | June 14, 2026 | Cardiology Conferences | ESH 2026
Study Focus:
Assess the prevalence of white-coat hypertension (WCH) in patients with grade 1 hypertension (gr. 1 HT) and identify predictive factors distinguishing WCH from sustained hypertension.
Study Design:
- Data from the Hungarian ABPM Registry, a multicenter, open-label, observational study.
- Adults with known or suspected hypertension (n=62,194; age 56.15 ± 15.18 years; female 54.5%).
- Focused on group 1 HT patients (n=28,198; 45.3%; age 55.76 ± 15.30 years; female 52.7%).
- ABPM performed using validated Meditech ABPM-06 devices between 01.03.2021 and 17.11.2025.
Key Findings:
- ABPM indicated due to WCH suspicion in 11.3% (n=3,182).
- 69.8% of group 1 HT patients were receiving antihypertensive therapy.
- WCH prevalence:
- Based on 24-hour ABPM: 33.1% (n=9,331); 74.3% (n=6,929) on treatment (WUCH).
- Considering 24-hour, daytime, and nighttime averages: 20.8% (n=5,868); 73.9% (n=4,338) classified as WUCH.
- Predictive factors for WCH vs sustained hypertension: female sex, older age, hypercholesterolemia, and physical inactivity.
Clinical Implications:
- Using only 24-hour ABPM averages may overestimate WCH prevalence.
- Comprehensive evaluation, including 24-hour, daytime, and nighttime averages, provides a more accurate assessment.
- Identification of predictive factors may help target monitoring and management strategies for WCH in grade 1 hypertensive patients.
WCH affects a substantial proportion of patients with grade 1 hypertension, particularly among women, older adults, those with hypercholesterolemia, and physically inactive individuals. Accurate ABPM assessment is essential to distinguish WCH from sustained hypertension and guide appropriate treatment decisions.