Clinical characteristics of two groups commonly referred to an Irish hypertension service-patients with resistant hypertension and young adults with hypertension.

Background: The management of hypertension is primarily performed in primary care settings in many health systems. However, two groups of patients often require specialist input: patients with resistant hypertension (RH) and young adults with hypertension.

Aims: To elucidate these groups by examining the characteristics of patients attending an Irish hypertension service, thus informing future management of hypertension.

Referrals to, and characteristics of patients attending a specialist hypertension clinic.

The management of hypertension is suboptimal in Ireland and internationally. The role of a specialist hypertension clinic is not always defined but an analysis of the reasons for referral are likely informative. Also, a description of the clinical characteristics of patients with hypertension will inform requirements for comprehensive hypertension management in the community and secondary care.