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The benefits of aggressive BP control in patients with CAD

    Disease Management Advisor
    |November 24, 2006
    PubMed

    Insights

    It is time to intensify blood pressure (BP) control. New research indicates current national guidelines are insufficient for patients with cardiac disease, advocating for lower BP targets in treatment strategies.

    Area of Science:

    • Cardiology
    • Hypertension Management

    Background:

    • Current blood pressure (BP) guidelines may not be aggressive enough for patients with existing cardiac conditions.
    • Mounting evidence suggests a need for more stringent BP targets.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate the adequacy of current national guidelines for BP control in patients with cardiac disease.
    • To determine if lower BP targets are warranted for this patient population.

    Main Methods:

    • Review of recent research and clinical evidence regarding BP control targets.
    • Analysis of data supporting more aggressive treatment strategies.

    Main Results:

    • Existing research suggests current BP targets are insufficient for patients with cardiac disease.
    • Investigators find a compelling case for treating to lower BP targets.

    Conclusions:

    • Clinicians should consider more aggressive BP control measures for patients with cardiac disease.
    • Current guidelines may need revision to incorporate lower BP targets for improved patient outcomes.

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