Definition, prevalence, and economic impacts of hypertension on the elderly population.

Arterial hypertension is the most important modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and a leading cause of death. The incidence of hypertension increases with age, with a lifetime risk of more than 90% for elderly individuals. With the growth in the absolute numbers and proportion of the elderly population worldwide, the economic impact and burden on healthcare systems due to elderly hypertension continue to rise. However, inconsistencies in the definition of elderly hypertension in different guidelines and the controversial results of various clinical trials underscore the importance of determining the consensus of management for elderly hypertension. Therefore, to clarify the current situation, this article discusses the definition, prevalence, and economic impacts of elderly hypertension.