Epidemiology and causes

A 2015 study showed that hypertension affects more than 25 per cent of adults in England. That’s around 13.5 million people, with a prevalence of 31 per cent in men and 26 per cent in women. 

Hypertension is a major risk factor for heart attack, stroke, heart failure, chronic kidney disease and cognitive decline. Pharmacy technicians can provide patients with information on the risks associated with hypertension, which will allow them to make informed decisions about managing their condition.

Hypertension can be primary or secondary. Primary (essential) hypertension has no identifiable cause and accounts for around 90 per cent of cases. Secondary hypertension has a known underlying cause, such as kidney disease, vascular disorder, or certain medications.