Hypertension in Elderly African-Americans

Epidemiologic observations clearly demonstrate that African-Americans present with an earlier onset of hypertension, and experience higher rates of morbidity and mortality associated with elevated levels of blood pressure. Racial differences in blood pressure magnitude begin earlier in life in African-Americans, and vascular damage and target organ injury occurs more rapidly. Consequently, elderly hypertensive African-Americans are at significant risk for vascular disease and target organ injury and require aggressive management efforts. Primary prevention of hypertensive vascular disease must focus on intensive risk factor intervention such as the prevention of obesity, modification of caloric, salt, and saturated fat intake, and, if necessary, control of diabetes. Additionally, efforts need to be placed on early identification and education, particularly in areas of socioeconomic disadvantage.