Reducing systolic blood pressure

The Challenge of blood pressure management

• High blood pressure is the leading cause of death in the world.
• More than a quarter of the world’s adult population – totalling nearly one billion – had high blood pressure in 2000. This figure is expected to increase to 30% - 1.5 billion - by 2025 (WHO data).
• Diet and lifestyle modifications are an essential part of the management of blood pressure and can favourably influence the overall risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Small reductions in blood pressure can have beneficial effects in lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease. Research studies indicate that reducing systolic blood pressure by 3-5 mmHg can lead to a 15% decrease in the risk of stroke and a 10% decrease in the risk of coronary heart disease. [Source: Framingham Heart Study experience, Cook et al., NIH publication; Stamler R. Hypertension. 1991;17(Suppl 1):I16–20]