We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is the Epidemiology of Hypertension?

By Madeleine A.
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 2,766
Share

The exact epidemiology of hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is not known because no single variable has been identified as the primary cause. Hypertension occurs when pressure of the blood on the arterial walls is stronger than optimal. In addition, hypertension can be a contributing factor in the development of heart disease and stroke. Although the epidemiology of hypertension does not point to one specific cause, there are contributing risk factors. Typically, hypertension is asymptomatic, however, as elevations in blood pressure become extreme, symptoms can include headache, dizziness, and weakness.

Because the epidemiology of hypertension in enigmatic, it is fortunate that risk factors can be identified and treated to prevent this condition, also known as the "silent killer." One prominent risk factor for hypertension is obesity. Typically, too many calories, particularly from fats and sugars, may promote low-grade inflammation, which alters the ability of the blood vessel cells to operate optimally. Over a period of time, this stress can diminish the ability of the blood vessels to dilate, or open maximally, causing high blood pressure. As researchers gain a better insight to the epidemiology of hypertension, pharmacological treatments that produce fewer side effects than ones presently used may become more available.

Typically, when blood vessels constrict, blood pressure rises. Smoking promotes this process, known as vasoconstriction. The nicotine in cigarettes is a potent vessel constrictor that can contribute to hypertension and coronary artery disease. Generally, smokers have a higher incidence of high blood pressure and heart disease, so every effort should be made to quit smoking. Commonly, as soon as the smoker quits, he will usually begin to feel better, and the risk of hypertension, stroke, and heart disease will diminish as well.

Because the epidemiology of hypertension does not point to one single component, efforts need to be made to modify lifestyles and habits. For example, consuming alcoholic beverages may play a part in the development of high blood pressure. Although moderate drinking may be beneficial to heart health, heavy consumption of alcohol is not. Health care providers should help their patients modify their drinking habits and reduce their blood pressure.

Generally, family history and advancing age are unmodifiable risk factors. One should not worry, however, about these factors that are out of a person's control. Instead, work on lifestyle changes as they relate to diet, weight, and habits such as smoking and drinking to reduce blood pressure through healthy living.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-the-epidemiology-of-hypertension.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.