Hypertension and the Family

[Page 634]Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular and related diseases. Further, elevated blood pressure has a greater impact on cardiovascular mortality than other metabolic abnormalities, such as overweight, low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and elevated blood glucose and triglyceride. Although some studies have shown increasing incidence of hypertension, mortality rates have declined. The decline has been attributed to increased awareness of hypertension and better management. From the aspect of sociology, most people live with other family members, and they are greatly influenced by families. Even some individuals with hypertension living alone are also influenced by family or social relationships. The literature has shown that families have a powerful influence on physical health, including morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the family may have a role ...