High blood pressure is a global public health issue, with a prevalence of over 40% in the population over 35 years old and more than one billion people affected worldwide. It is the leading cause of death globally and can lead to serious health problems, such as heart attacks and strokes.
Dr. Manuel de la Peña, president of the European Institute of Health and Social Welfare and professor of cardiology, warns that 50% of hypertensive individuals do not receive treatment, and only 16% of patients are well controlled. Moreover, poorly controlled high blood pressure over time can cause heart attacks and strokes. Therefore, it is essential to adjust the treatment strategy to achieve optimal figures below 130/80 mmHg.
High blood pressure is a multifactorial disorder that can be influenced by genetic factors, lifestyle, and age. The stiffness of the arterial walls increases over the years, causing a reduction in the elasticity of the blood vessels and resistance to blood flow. Furthermore, stress, lack of exercise, excessive consumption of salt and alcohol, smoking, and poor diet can contribute to the onset and worsening of high blood pressure.
To reduce blood pressure, it is necessary to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular physical exercise, weight loss in case of obesity, restriction of salt and alcohol intake, and a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
In cases of refractory hypertension, Dr. Manuel de la Peña points out that renal denervation is an innovative therapeutic option that can be very effective. This ablation procedure is performed through femoral catheterization, aiming to interrupt the renal sympathetic nerves to achieve good clinical outcomes. Renal denervation may be a good option for patients with poor adherence to treatment or with high cardiovascular risk.
In conclusion, high blood pressure is a widespread public health problem, but it is treatable and preventable through the adoption of healthy lifestyle habits and proper blood pressure control. Knowledge about high blood pressure and its treatment is essential to prevent cardiovascular diseases and improve the quality of life of hypertensive patients.
