Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 17, 2026

Improved Renal Denervation Mitigated Hypertension Induced by Angiotensin II Infusion
08:35

Improved Renal Denervation Mitigated Hypertension Induced by Angiotensin II Infusion

Published on: May 26, 2022

[Treatment and control of hypertension in Croatia. The BEL-AH study]

Bojan Jelaković1, Zivka Dika, Jelena Kos

  • 1Klinika za unutarnje bolesti KBC-a Zagreb i Medicinski fakultet Sveucilista u Zagrebu. bojan.jelakovic@zg.htnet.hr

Lijecnicki Vjesnik
|January 11, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Blood pressure control in Croatia is poor, with only 8% of patients reaching target levels. Both doctors and patients reported satisfaction despite inadequate blood pressure management, highlighting a need for increased awareness and education on hypertension control.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Public Health
  • Hypertension Management

Context:

  • Poor blood pressure control significantly contributes to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
  • This study examined blood pressure control in outpatient settings across four major Croatian towns.
  • The research involved 412 general practitioners and 7031 middle-aged patients.

Purpose:

  • To analyze the control of blood pressure in outpatient settings in Croatia.
  • To identify factors influencing blood pressure control, including patient and physician satisfaction, and Body Mass Index (BMI).

Summary:

  • Mean blood pressure in treated patients was 162.9/95.6 mmHg, with only 8% achieving target values.
  • Despite poor control, 44.5% of doctors and 72% of patients were satisfied.
  • Obesity (BMI) correlated with hypertension severity and treatment outcomes, with lower BMI patients prescribed fewer medications.

Impact:

  • Findings reveal a critical gap in hypertension management and awareness among both healthcare providers and the population in Croatia.
  • The study underscores the necessity for enhanced public and professional education regarding the importance of stringent blood pressure control.
  • Addressing obesity and improving patient and physician education are crucial for reducing cardiovascular risks associated with uncontrolled hypertension.

Related Concept Videos

Hypertension IV: Drug Therapy and Lifestyle Modifications01:28

Hypertension IV: Drug Therapy and Lifestyle Modifications

Multiple classes of antihypertensive medications are employed in treating hypertension. The most commonly recommended first-line treatments include:Thiazide Diuretics, such as chlorthalidone, increase sodium and water excretion from the body, reducing blood volume and blood pressure.Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, like lisinopril, block the conversion of angiotensin I to II, a potent vasoconstrictor lowering blood pressure.Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) prevent angiotensin II...
Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:30

Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Hypertension is asymptomatic and also referred to as the "silent killer" until it progresses to a severe stage or causes target organ disease. Patients may experience symptoms stemming from the strain on blood vessels and tissues in various organs or the heart's increased workload.Physical exams might show no abnormalities other than high blood pressure. Signs of vascular damage, when present, correspond to the organs supplied by the affected vessels, leading to target organ damage. For...
Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure01:18

Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure

Hypertension, the most common cardiovascular disease, is diagnosed through repeated measurements of elevated blood pressure. Its risks, including damage to the kidney, heart, and brain, are directly proportional to blood pressure levels. Starting from 115/75 mm Hg, the risk of cardiovascular disease doubles with each increment of 20/10 mm Hg. The diagnosis relies on blood pressure measurements, not on patient symptoms, as hypertension is often asymptomatic until end-organ damage is imminent or...
Antihypertensive Drugs: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors01:30

Antihypertensive Drugs: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a vital component of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, is abundant in lung endothelial cells. ACE converts the inactive decapeptide, angiotensin I, into the active octapeptide, angiotensin II. This potent vasoconstrictor narrows blood vessels, increasing resistance to blood flow and elevating blood pressure. Angiotensin II also stimulates aldosterone production, encouraging kidney cells to reabsorb more sodium and water from urine, thereby increasing...
Hypertension I: Introduction01:28

Hypertension I: Introduction

Hypertension is a widespread, long-term medical condition where blood pressure in the arteries remains elevated. It is characterized by systolic blood pressure readings of 130 mm Hg or above or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) readings of 80 mm Hg or higher. Unmanaged hypertension poses significant health risks, making the distinction between primary (or essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension crucial, as their management and implications vary.Primary HypertensionPrimary hypertension,...
Hypertension II: Pathophysiology01:29

Hypertension II: Pathophysiology

Hypertension is a chronic condition in which the blood's force against artery walls is excessively high, posing risks such as heart disease. The condition's underlying mechanisms involve complex interactions among the cardiovascular, kidney, and autonomic nervous systems.Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS): This system significantly influences blood pressure regulation. When blood pressure decreases, the kidneys secrete renin. This enzyme transforms angiotensinogen, a plasma protein,...