Integrative approaches to hypertension

Abstract

Hypertension is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease, CHF, stroke, and renal disease. Meta-analyses reveal that a mean reduction in DBP of 5-6 mm. Hg is associated with avoidance of 1/3 of the risk of stroke and 1/5 of the risk of coronary artery disease [47,48]. The meta-analyses explored drug therapy, yet this level of blood pressure reduction has been repeatedly demonstrated with the integrative approaches described in this article. Given that many of these approaches have broader health impacts than blood pressure reduction alone, further trials of integrative approaches and promotion of their benefits to patients are warranted.