Depression and its relation with uncontrolled hypertension and increased cardiovascular risk.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality worldwide and hypertension is one of the main cardiovascular risk factors. A large body of evidence have demonstrated the increased risk for CVD and mortality associated with uncontrolled hypertension and also the benefits of an adequate blood pressure (BP) control. In some cases, lack of adherence to treatment found during the evaluation of a subject with poor BP control may be part of a more complex scenario, as depression. It is known that individuals with depression have a higher risk of CVD-related morbidity and mortality, and early diagnosis and treatment have beneficial effects.