Prevalence of hypertension and controlled hypertension - United States, 2007-2010

Hypertension is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. As the first and fourth leading causes of death in the United States, heart disease and stroke occur in approximately 30% of adults aged ≥18 years in the United States. Disparities in the prevalence of hypertension among racial/ethnic groups have persisted at least since 1960, with the prevalence remaining highest among non-Hispanic black adults. Blood pressure control among those with hypertension can reduce the risk of subsequent cardiovascular diseases. Among adults with hypertension, Mexican-American persons born outside the United States, and persons without health insurance had lower rates of blood pressure control in 2005-2008. Not only do non-Hispanic black adults have higher rates of hypertension, but among those with hypertension they also have lower rates of blood pressure control than non-Hispanic white adults.