Over 43 million adults in the United States have hypertension, but 31% are unaware of their elevated blood pressure; 17% are aware but untreated; 29% are being treated but have not controlled their blood pressure (still greater than 140/90 mm Hg); and only 23% are well controlled.In every adult age group, higher values of systolic and diastolic blood pressure carry greater risks of stroke and congestive heart failure. Systolic blood pressure is a better predictor of morbid events than diastolic blood pressure. Home monitoring is better correlated with target organ damage than clinin-based values. Clinicians can apply specific blood pressure criteria, such as those of the Joint National Conference, along with consideration of the patient's cardiovascular risk, to decide at what levels should be considered in individual cases.
Primary prevention of hypertension can be accomplished by strategies aimed at both the general population and special high-risk populations. The latter include persons with high-normal blood pressure or a family history of hypertension, blacks, and individuals with various behavioral risk factors such as physical inactivity; excessive consumption of salt, alcohol consumption, weight loss, and regular exercise. Potassium supplementation of potassium, calcium, magnesium, fish oil, or fiber; macro nutrient alteration; and stress management.
Improved identification and treatment of hypertension is a major cause of the recent decline in stroke deaths, Because hypertension is usually asymptomatic, screening is strongly recommended to identify patients for treatment. Despite strong recommendations in favor of screening and treatment, hypertension control remains suboptimal. An intervention that included patient education and provider education was more effective than provider education alone in achieving control of hypertension, suggesting the benefits of patients participations.
Share iT! Disease And Health Promotion
Join The Community