Blood pressure: At what level is treatment worthwhile?

Abstract

High blood pressure is a key modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular events. A cardiovascular risk-based approach is best for determining when to start antihypertensive treatment. Recent trial evidence has suggested lower blood pressure targets are beneficial. This has influenced international guidelines. The US guidelines have a lower threshold for defining hypertension than current Australian and European guidelines. The patient’s individual circumstances must be considered when treatment targets are set. For someone with a high risk of cardiovascular events, a systolic blood pressure target of 120 mmHg may be appropriate.