Introduction Hypertension is an important public health problem in Mongolia with a rapidly increasing incidence and deaths noted during the last several years. This study estimates the prevalence and control of hypertension among rural and urban population in Mongolia.

Methods A nationwide cross-sectional study was conducted using stratified multistage sampling. Two blood pressure measurements were obtained using a standardised mercury sphygmomanometer. Information on history of hypertension was obtained using a standard questionnaire. Hypertension was defined as mean systolic and diastolic BPs at >140 mm Hg and >90 mm Hg, and/or self-reported current use of antihypertensive medication, previous diagnosis.

Results A total of 2280 people aged over 40 years were examined (response rate 93.5%). Overall, 63.8% of study population had hypertension. Around 11% were newly diagnosed whereas 55.4% were aware of their hypertension. Prevalence of hypertension significantly increased with age (p=0.0001). In addition women were more likely to be aware of their disease and to be on treatment compared to men. People who are aware of their hypertension were significantly more likely to quit smoking compared to those who are newly diagnosed and who are non-hypertensive (22.0%, 6.7% and 11.8%, p). In addition they were more likely to reduce consumption of alcohol (alcohol consumption 56.7%, 65.1% and 64.6%, p=0.001) to be on diet (29.2%, 5.3% and 2.6%, p=0.0001), and reducing their weights (17.1%, 5.3% and 0%, p=0.0001).

Conclusions Hypertension is highly prevalent among population aged over 40 years. Hypertensive people who are aware of their disease were more likely to reduce their risk behaviours and to promote healthy lifestyles.