Ethnic differences in hypertension and blood pressure control. Issues for prevention strategies.

Population studies revealed significantly lower levels of hypertension among rural community than both semi-urban and recently urbanized communities, and much of the difference was attributed to environmental factors. Migration studies revealed that increased sodium consumption is a key factor for the development of hypertension in some ethnic group, and people of African origin are known to be more prone to develop hypertension in western countries. Recent data obtained in European countries reveals that the rates of detection, treatment, and control are higher among the black population indicating a greater awareness among the general public and physicians in Europe of the importance of detecting and managing hypertension in blacks. However, due to the relevant role of the environment and increasing urbanization, the greater attention to prevention strategies should be placed in developing countries to prevent the onset of global epidemics. Primary prevention of hypertension is possible through weight reduction, regular exercise, salt restriction and other dietary measures, but in developing countries is specially important to identify groups where a particular intervention is more effective and to improve detection and control of hypertension.