Hypertension in Hispanics/Latinos: Epidemiology and Considerations for Management.

Abstrac: PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Hispanic/Latino Americans are among the fastest growing ethnic populations in the United States (US). Hypertension, in particular uncontrolled hypertension, is a significant source of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in this population. In this review, we outline the epidemiology of hypertension and certain considerations in the management of hypertension in this heterogeneous population.

Recent Findings: Substantial variation in hypertension prevalence and control exists among different ethnic subgroups of Hispanics. More specifically, and in the community, outcomes for hypertension management are less favorable, suggesting that suboptimal hypertension control may be the result of social factors. In this regard, community-based interventions have shown promise in addressing these shortfalls. Nonetheless, significant barriers to effective hypertension care exist in the Hispanic community, including the increasing prevalence of comorbidities that impact hypertension such as obesity. Pharmacologic therapies for hypertension have been highly effective in Hispanic subjects participating in clinical trials. Notably, studies that disaggregate Hispanics by their ancestral origin may provide greater insight into the sources of ethnic disparities. Culturally tailored interventions may improve hypertension management and outcomes in Hispanic populations. Additional population and clinical trials in Hispanic patients of different ancestral heritages are needed.