Is early and fast blood pressure control important in hypertension management?

Int J Cardiol. 2018 Mar 1:254:328-332. doi: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2017.12.026. Epub 2017 Dec 13.

Abstract

Control of blood pressure (BP) in hypertension is recognized as a key measure in the management of cardiovascular (CV) risk and is a cornerstone of preventive strategies. It is not defined, however, whether an initiation of the antihypertensive treatment in the early stages of hypertension (such as prehypertension or high-normal BP), may bring benefits for the long-term prevention of CV events. In addition, it has not been thoroughly addressed the issue whether achievement of a prompt BP reduction in hypertensive patients may contribute to reduce CV damage and events. The aim of this article is to critically examine data from studies exploring these important questions. Our conclusion is that the available evidence, though not very extensive, supports the prevailing benefits associated with early BP control. We also discuss the therapeutic strategies to achieve early control of BP. Finally, we believe that this aspect deserves to be more thoroughly addressed in upcoming international guidelines.

Keywords: Cardiovascular prevention; Early blood pressure control; Hypertension; Prehyhpertension.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antihypertensive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Blood Pressure / physiology*
  • Blood Pressure Determination / methods
  • Disease Management*
  • Humans
  • Hypertension / diagnosis
  • Hypertension / physiopathology*
  • Hypertension / therapy*
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Antihypertensive Agents