Results of the Ontario Survey on the Prevalence and Control of Hypertension

Abstract

"Hypertension is a major risk factor for premature cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Epidemiologic studies have indicated that, for people 40–69 years of age, each increase of 20 mm Hg in usual systolic blood pressure is associated with a doubling of mortality rates for stroke and ischemic heart disease.1 In 2002 the World Health Organization estimated that at least 50% of cases of cardiovascular disease and at least 75% of strokes were caused by elevated blood pressure.2 At the same time, randomized clinical trials have demonstrated that these risks can be markedly reduced by antihypertensive drug therapy. The substantial burden of suffering associated with hypertension, combined with the availability of feasible and accurate means of detection and a clear benefit from treatment have led to worldwide recommendations for hypertension screening and management."