Can an App help people reduce their blood pressure after stroke?

Seventh Joint Stroke Association/BHF Grant: Towards An Integrated Self-Monitoring SolutIoN for Stroke/TIA: TASMIN5S (Ninth Call)

People who have had a stroke or a ‘mini-stroke’ – known to doctors as a TIA - are at higher risk of a further stroke/TIA if their blood pressure is too high. Unfortunately, high blood pressure is common, and too often poorly controlled. Previous studies have suggested that measuring blood pressure at home (‘self-monitoring’) may help to control blood pressure. This major study funded by the BHF and Stroke Association aims to test if self-monitoring is practical, and if it could save lives from stroke. The study team will develop and test a blood pressure self-monitoring system tailored to the needs of stroke/TIA survivors. It will use mobile technology – text messaging or an App – for patients to submit blood pressure readings and receive feedback on what to do next. This will link up with the patient’s GP as well, to help them decide whether to change the patient’s medication where appropriate. The study will have three parts. First, the app system will be tried out and patients and GPs will be asked what they think of it. Next, blood pressure will be compared between people who self-monitor and those under normal GP care, after one year. Finally, the system will be assessed for value-for-money so that – if it is easy to use, and reduces blood pressure – it can be introduced into practice quickly.