Hypertension in America: a national reading.

The prevalence of hypertension in the United States is increasing despite increased awareness of the importance of controlling blood pressure (BP). The growing prevalence of obesity is a major factor in the increased prevalence of hypertension; the aging of the population is another factor. Age, weight, and ethnicity are strong predictors of hypertension. Blacks, older individuals, and people with diabetes have the highest rates. Although Healthy People 2010 has established a target of 50% for hypertension control, the most recent National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey indicates that only about 30% of individuals with hypertension have their BP controlled. Several barriers to effective BP control have been identified, including patient access and adherence to therapy and provider failure to initiate or intensify therapy.