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Heart disease modifiable risk factors - hypertension

Hypertension increases the workload of the heart causing the heart to thicken and become stiffer. Hypertension also increases the risk of stroke, MI, kidney failure, and chronic heart failure. When high blood pressure coexists with obesity, smoking, high blood cholesterol levels or diabetes, the risk of MI and stroke is increased. Worldwide, about half of all strokes and ischemic heart disease are attributable to high blood pressure.

Treatment of high blood pressure begins with lifestyle changes, eating a healthy diet that is low in salt, and if needed, losing weight and increasing physical activity. Drug therapy may also be necessary.

Review Date: 2/13/2025

Reviewed By: Jacob Berman, MD, MPH, Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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