Obesity induced hypertension: The main pathophysiological mechanisms

Abstract

In most countries worldwide, hypertension (HTN) occupies a leading position in the structure of modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and their complications. One of the main reasons for this trend is the increasing prevalence of obesity, which is becoming an important risk factor for high blood pressure (BP). The results of numerous epidemiological studies showed an association between obesity (assessed by body mass index (BMI)) and BP levels, as well as a prognostic role of BMI in relation to the development of HTN. However, there is currently no consensus on the obesity criterion that most accurately predicts the risk of HTN and associated complications. Data from prospective observational studies showed a greater prognostic value of indirect and direct indicators of abdominal and ectopic visceral adipose tissue.These facts stimulated research aimed at revealing the pathophysiological mechanisms of HTN in patients with overweight and obesity, which are reviewed in this article.