Update on hypertension in African-Americans

Uncontrolled hypertension (HTN) in the U.S. is particularly prevalent and devastating among black individuals, who disproportionately suffer the consequences of this condition to a greater extent compared with persons in other racial/ethnic groups. Furthermore, African Americans are often underrepresented in cardiovascular clinical trials, limiting the ability to reliably apply the results from many outcome studies in this specific population. In this review, we summarize and analyze the currently available evidence, specifically related to the risk factors, manifestations, complications and management of HTN in this often difficult-to-treat population. The aim of the review is to improve understanding of the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms and identify the optimal approach to deliver the best care for African American patients.