Epidemiology of hypertension

Hypertension is a common condition and is associated with a high risk of future cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and cardiovascular-related events. Hypertension is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease and death worldwide. Many modifiable and non-modifiable factors influence the prevalence of hypertension. Potentially modifiable risk factors for hypertension include high salt consumption, low consumption of fruits and vegetables, high alcohol consumption, not maintaining optimal body weight, and low physical activity/sedentary lifestyle. Non-modifiable risk factors include age, male sex, ethnicity, and genetic factors. Although the prevalence of hypertension is increasing worldwide, there are disparities between countries, with low- and middle-income countries experiencing the highest increase in prevalence of hypertension. From a public health point of view, population and opportunistic screening and patient education of lifestyle influences of hypertension are important in the diagnosis, management, and prevention of hypertension.