Hypertension in black Americans as a special population: why so special?

Studies have shown that appropriate treatment of hypertension will reduce cardiovascular, renal, and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality for all patients. Because hypertension has a multifaceted nature the disorder presents with unique features in prevalence, morbidity, and mortality among ethnic groups. Blacks, Hispanics, and Native Americans have been identified as special populations at risk for unique experiences with hypertension. Among these special populations, black Americans present unique issues in etiology, pathophysiology, severity, and response to treatment. This article reviews the varied aspects of hypertension detection, treatment, and control as they relate to the special population of black Americans.