Hypertension is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Is compliance with prescribed anti-hypertenrsive medication regimens beneficial to lower CVD risk? Italian investigators followed almost 19,000 hypertensive patients without CVD at baseline for almost five years in an attempt to answer this question. They found those with high adherence had 38% lower risk for CVD compared to lower adherence. This study examined medications as the agent for anti-hypertensive therapy. Regular physical activity, ideal weight, a healthy, low-sodium diet and less stress may reduce or eliminate the need for these medications as well.
PositiveTip: If you are on medications for hypertension, take them regularly as prescribe to lower your risk of CVD.