Abstract: Objective The present investigation was performed to know the morbidity and epidemiolog ical characteristics of hypertension in urbon residents for provision of scientific data to establish prevention ＆ treatment measurements for this population. Methods Usual urban residents aged 35-74 were chosen as subjects of investigation. Random multi-stage sampling was adopted to inquire by face to face ques-tionnaire with blood pressure measured Results The incidence of hypertension was 28.2％ with a stan dardized rate 23.6％，increasing with age. The awareness rate，treatment rate and control rate of hyper tension were 65.0％，57.3％，and 27.8％ respectively. Grade 1，2 and 3 hypertension at diagnosis ac count for 48.1％，25.0％and 26.9％ rspectively.The percentage ratio of grade 1 hypertension at diag nosis was significantly higher than that reported ratio Conclusion The incidence of hypertansion in ur ban residents of Ningbo is much the same as that of national sanpling investigation in population over 35 years old in 1991. Although the awareness rate，treatment rate and control rate of hypertension in resi dents of Ningbo are relatively good，there is still large room for reinforcement of prevention ＆ treatment. Multiple effective measurements should be taken to diagnose hypertensive patients in early stage to im prove the control rate and reduce or defer the risk of servere cardiovasuclar diseases.