Hypertension

Abstract

Hypertension affects more men than women. Hypertension is also an important modifiable risk factor for ischaemic heart disease, stroke and renal disease, and is one of the most preventable and treatable causes of premature deaths worldwide. Hypertension is the leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and associated disability. It is associated with more than half of all heart attacks and strokes, and is a major risk factor for heart failure, chronic kidney disease (CKD) and vascular dementia. Primary hypertension is far more common than secondary hypertension, representing at least 90% of cases. Primary hypertension has no underlying cause and is thought to be linked to increasing age, genetics, and unhealthy lifestyle and dietary factors. The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) updated their guidance on the diagnosis and management of hypertension in 2019. Clinical judgement should always be used in people with frailty or multimorbidity.