The laboratory and hypertension - Novel approach for diagnosis and management

Abstract

Hypertension remains one of the most significant causes of mortality, affecting more than 1 billion people worldwide. It is a significant public health concern and a major risk factor for renal disease, heart failure, stroke, coronary artery disease and peripheral vascular disease. In more than 90% of hypertensive patients, the cause of blood pressure elevation is unknown. Therefore, early diagnosis and timely interventions are crucial to prevent complications. Over the last four decades, various blood biomarkers have been identified, which can help in understanding the cause of the underlying processes involved in the onset, development and progression of hypertension (HT). It is our attempt, in this review, to suggest a more robust use of circulating biomarkers that may prove to be beneficial in better elucidating the pathophysiology, development, progression and therapeutic efficacy in the management of HT.