The lower the achieved blood pressure goal the better

Abstract

Purpose of review 

Hypertension is the eminent risk factor for renal and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Its management is a topic of public health priority. As either too high or too low blood pressure (BP) levels can have detrimental effects on health, optimal targets for BP continue to be controversial. The current manuscript will review relevant data published over the last year that add to this topic of controversy.

Recent findings 

Recent studies confirm increased CVD-related risk with increasing SBP levels more than 140 mmHg among patients with hypertension and CVD as well as those over the age of 60 years. A SBP target less than 140 mmHg conveyed lessened risk of CVD-related events. There is some evidence suggesting that the ideal BP target lies between 120 and 140 mmHg.

Summary 

Recent data support a target SBP of less than 140 mmHg among patients with hypertension or CVD, and achievement of this target might benefit those older than 60 years of age as well. Treating to SBPs below 120 mmHg may not result in further benefit. Data from randomized controlled trials specifically addressing the question whether lower BPs are associated with better outcomes are needed to further define ideal BP-target goals.