Globally, hypertension is the leading cause of death and affects almost 1.5 billion people. Despite the prevalence of hypertension throughout the world, awareness rates and blood pressure control can vary dramatically between regions. In the scientific journal, Cardiovascular Research, the International Society of Hypertension published a global review titled “Addressing global disparities in blood pressure control: Perspectives of the International Society of Hypertension”. Historical perspectives are provided, epidemiology is summarized, and region-specific challenges are discussed. With a focus on regional considerations, evidence-based hypertension care for cardiovascular risk reduction is identified.
Over 29 countries were represented in the Writing Group, including Sub-Saharan Africa, the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and Northern Africa, as well as South and Central Asia.
The lead author and ISH Immediate Past-President Alta Schutte notes:
“It is of utmost importance to highlight the key challenges affecting blood pressure control, not only in high-income but particularly in lower income regions. The ISH is uniquely positioned to reflect on these aspects, and we relied on real-world experience from our global and diverse membership, ensuring that we make their voices heard.”
