Opportunistic screening for hypertension.

Opportunistic screening in hypertensive patients aged between 35 and 70 years is a part of good primary medical care. It can be done with very little time added to a routine consultation. More than 75 per cent of patients in each practice could be screened at least once in five years. Preventive medicine could be carried out as well, such as advice on diet, exercise habits, vaccination and cervical smears.