The History of Hypertension Guidelines in Canada

Hypertension guidelines have evolved significantly over the past 40 years and have become a key element in a multipronged strategy to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with hypertension in Canada. According to many measures, Canada's guidelines have been effective, and have likely been a significant factor in improving population hypertension awareness and control rates and reducing cardiovascular mortality. Canada has created a successful template for guideline creation, implementation, and outcome surveillance that has been adopted by jurisdictions throughout the world. This review provides a history of hypertension guidelines in Canada, along with a reflection on the changing clinical environment in which guidelines are used and how guidelines need to continue to evolve to remain impactful and effective.