ABSTRACT
In borderline disease the risks are low, with less than 2% developing moderate hypertension over five years. The blood pressure should be checked every year and advice given on smoking, weight, exercise, alcohol and lifestyle. In mild hypertension one should only treat a diastolic below 100mmHg if there is evidence of end-organ damage. As 4% will progress to moderate hypertension over five years the blood pressure should be checked every six months, and advice given on smoking, weight, exercise, alcohol and lifestyle. In moderate hypertension treatment should be commenced for all diastolic blood pressures sustained over 100mmHg in patients aged under 70. If aged over 70, consideration of treatment should be based on individual merits and if there is evidence of target organ damage.
