Linking Evidence-based Management in Hypertension to Real-world Experience for Preventing Stroke: An Indian Perspective

Currently, hypertension is the most critical modifiable risk factor for stroke. The current consensus article describes the clinical views of experts regarding various aspects of the link between hypertension and, stroke, risk assessment of stroke, blood pressure management and consequent stroke prevention, optimal blood pressure targets, along with current antihypertensive approaches. A literature search was performed using databases like PubMed and Google Scholar. Relevant articles were identified using keywords like ‘hypertension’, ‘blood pressure’, ‘stroke’, and, ‘antihypertensive therapy.’ After the screening, 44 relevant articles were identified and included in the current article. Appropriate blood pressure management with antihypertensive agents is the chief aspect of primary and secondary prevention of stroke. Clinical evidence has strongly established a significant reduction in the risk of first and recurrent stroke with BP-lowering therapy. As the risk of stroke continues to increase, there is a dire necessity to ensure evidence-based management of hypertension for preventing stroke in the Indian population. On similar grounds, the current consensus article aims at providing a collation of evidence-based literature and clinical insights of leading therapy experts of India in the field of neurology, cardiology, and medicine to optimise the management of hypertension and prevention of stroke.