Hypertension: Psychological and Behavioral Factors

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a primary cause of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and other peripheral vascular disorders, contributing to the global burden of disease and mortality. Although [Page 1717]hypertension runs in families and genetic elements are involved in its etiology, these factors do not entirely predict its onset. Consequently, it is important to examine other lifestyle factors that contribute to its etiology, including those of a psychological or behavioral origin. There is evidence that several behavioral factors contribute to the onset of hypertension and influence how blood pressure problems are measured and diagnosed as well as how it is treated.