Hypertension in obesity

L Romayne Kurukulasuriya1, Sameer Stas, Guido Lastra

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine, Columbia, MO 65212, USA. romaynel@health.missouri.edu

Insights

Obesity and hypertension (HTN) are global health issues. Treating HTN to goal and preventing obesity are crucial for managing cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease consequences.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Endocrinology
  • Nephrology

Background:

  • Hypertension (HTN) is a prevalent obesity-related health problem, with visceral obesity being a significant contributor.
  • A low percentage (31%) of hypertensive patients achieve treatment goals, leading to increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality.
  • Obesity-related HTN involves complex, interrelated mechanisms including RAAS activation, SNS, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalances.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the mechanisms underlying obesity-related hypertension.
  • To discuss current and potential therapeutic strategies for managing hypertension in obese individuals.
  • To emphasize the importance of weight management and blood pressure control.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on obesity-related hypertension mechanisms and treatments.
  • Analysis of postulated factors contributing to obesity-induced HTN.
  • Evaluation of current treatment guidelines and research trials.

Main Results:

  • Several factors contribute to obesity-related HTN, including RAAS and SNS activation, insulin resistance, and hormonal dysregulation.
  • Current evidence does not strongly favor one antihypertensive drug class over another for obese patients.
  • Obesity management through lifestyle changes, medication, or bariatric surgery is essential.

Conclusions:

  • Effective management of obesity-related HTN requires a multifaceted approach.
  • Preventing and treating obesity, alongside achieving blood pressure goals, is paramount.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate specific mechanisms and targeted treatments for obesity-related HTN.

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