Tightening the Belt on Hypertension
Tightening the Belt on Hypertension
Abstract & Commentary
Source: Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC 7). US Department of Health and Human Services. NIH Publication No. 03-5233. May 2003.
Hypertension is a major risk factor for both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. This and other risk factors for atherosclerosis are not merely issues for middle and late age. These are processes that begin early in life and cause cumulative damage to small and large arteries supplying the brain and within the brain. The recently released JNC 7 report is, therefore, of great importance to neurologists interested in stroke prevention.
The JNC report identifies "pre-hypertension" for individuals with blood pressures > 120 systolic or 80 diastolic (see Table). Although not recommended for antihypertensive medications, these BP goals mandate lifestyle modifications for a huge number of Americans previously not thought to be at increased risk. Lifestyle modifications include weight reduction, diet modification (low salt, low fat), aerobic exercise, and moderation of alcohol consumption. For those with Stage 1 or 2 hypertension, single-drug regimens may be insufficient, and there should be a low threshold for dual therapy (such as with an ACE inhibitor and a diuretic). Patient blood pressures should be aggressively checked at office visits, by outpatient BP monitors and by patient self checks.
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Table |
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Blood pressure category |
Systolic | Diastolic |
| Normal | < 120 | < 80 |
|
Prehypertension |
120-139 | 80-89 |
| Hypertension, Stage 1 | 140-159 | 90-99 |
|
Hypertension, Stage 2 |
> 160 | > 100 |
Commentary
Untreated hypertension is an epidemic in this country. These new JNC guidelines further magnify this problem. It is incumbent upon neurologists and all health care professionals to educate our patients and encourage crucial lifestyle and pharmacologic interventions. — Alan Z. Segal
Dr. Segal is Assistant Professor, Department of Neurology, Weill-Cornell Medical College, Attending Neurologist, New York Presbyterian Hospital.
Hypertension is a major risk factor for both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. This and other risk factors for atherosclerosis are not merely issues for middle and late age.Subscribe Now for Access
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