[Austrian Consensus on High Blood Pressure 2019].

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Elevated blood pressure is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, disability, and premature death in Austria.
• Current rates of hypertension detection, treatment, and control remain suboptimal.
• Managing hypertension presents a significant challenge for physicians across various specializations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To standardize diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for hypertension in Austria.
• To increase the rate of patients with controlled blood pressure.
• To decrease the burden of cardiovascular disease associated with uncontrolled hypertension.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive review of existing evidence on the prevention, detection, workup, treatment, and consequences of high blood pressure.
• Involvement of 13 Austrian medical societies in the evidence review process.
• Development of the first national consensus on blood pressure management.

Main Results:

• The consensus provides standardized guidelines for hypertension management.
• It addresses general high blood pressure and specific clinical scenarios.
• The document represents a unified national approach to tackling hypertension.

Conclusions:

• A joint national effort is crucial to reduce hypertension-related morbidity and mortality in Austria.
• Standardized strategies are expected to improve blood pressure control rates.
• The consensus serves as a foundation for enhanced cardiovascular disease prevention.