[Arterial hypertension in clinical practice]

Based on their epidemiological survey in the South Moravian region where 64,083 men and women, mean age 43.1 years, were examined, the authors submit the results of screening, prevalence, control and complications of hypertension. They draw attention to the high rate and almost 50% detection of new patients, in particular of productive age. The results indicate the high risk of arterial hypertension in the genesis of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease, on the inadequate control of the disease in field practice and the favourable effect on the prevalence of cerebrovascular disease when effective therapy is used, as apparent from a five-year perspective study. The authors emphasize the significant role of secondary prevention on the course, prognosis and complications of this disease of the circulation.