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Systemic hypertension and coronary artery disease
1Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville 32610, USA.
The American Journal of Cardiology
|August 27, 1998
Summary
Hypertension affects 60 million Americans, often co-occurring with coronary artery disease (CAD). Both conditions increase with age, posing a significant concern for clinicians due to rising elderly populations.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Hypertension affects an estimated 60 million individuals in the United States.
- Prevalence estimates for hypertension vary based on diagnostic criteria (e.g., >140/90 mm Hg vs. >130/90 mm Hg per JNC VI).
- Coronary artery disease (CAD) frequently coexists with hypertension; in studies of over 5,000 CAD patients, half had hypertension.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the prevalence and population trends of coronary artery disease and hypertension.
- To explore the pathogenic mechanisms linking hypertension and CAD.
- To present results from current outcome trials concerning these conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data on hypertension and CAD prevalence.
- Analysis of risk factors and pathogenic mechanisms.
- Synthesis of findings from clinical outcome trials.
Main Results:
- Hypertension is a significant risk factor for CAD.
- The incidence of both hypertension and CAD increases with age.
- Projections indicate a doubling in the prevalence of both conditions in the next century due to an aging population.
Conclusions:
- The rising prevalence of hypertension and CAD, particularly in the elderly, is a critical issue for healthcare providers.
- Understanding the interplay between these conditions is vital for effective clinical management.
- Further research and outcome trials are essential for addressing these growing public health challenges.