Rethinking arterial hypertension: the need for a paradigm shift

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Nephrology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Essential hypertension is paradoxically labeled the primary cause of arterial hypertension despite unknown etiology.
• This diagnostic approach leads to secondary hypertension being overlooked, hindering potential cures and necessitating lifelong treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the historical development and current scientific evidence supporting the high prevalence of essential hypertension.
• To examine the concept of secondary hypertension and establish criteria for its diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature and recent studies on hypertension etiology.
• Analysis of diagnostic criteria for differentiating essential and secondary hypertension.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests that secondary hypertension is more prevalent than commonly believed when systematically investigated.
• Current diagnostic practices may lead to underdiagnosis of secondary hypertension.

Conclusions:

• Increased awareness and systematic screening for secondary hypertension are crucial.
• Identifying and treating secondary hypertension can offer a cure or improved management, enhancing patient quality of life.