Essential hypertension: another look at possible aetiology and treatment

Abstract

Hypertension is a worldwide problem with sometimes very devastating complications especially in the black race. It is a silent disease and a silent killer through its assault on the vital organs of the body like the heart, brain and kidneys. There are well known therapeutic modalities, including diet and weight control, regular exercise and other lifestyle modifications like cessation of smoking and moderation in alcohol intake. Of course, the beneficial effect of drugs in the control of hypertension is well established. This review addresses the physiologic and genetic basis for the evaluation and management of hypertension and for maximizing individual treatment needs. Genes responsible for inherited essential hypertension can be targeted and hypertension effectively prevented or treated. A pharmacogenomic approach to the treatment of hypertension is proposed.