Key Updates to the 2024 ESC Hypertension Guidelines and Future Perspectives
Alexandru Burlacu, Masanari Kuwabara, Crischentian Brinza, Mehmet Kanbay
Abstract
Hypertension remains a critical global health challenge, significantly contributing to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality despite advancements in treatment. The 2024 ESC hypertension guidelines address persistent gaps in hypertension management by emphasizing comprehensive strategies encompassing early detection, socioeconomic barriers, lifestyle interventions, and personalized care. Enhanced screening protocols, including home and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, aim for accurate diagnosis and risk stratification. Lifestyle recommendations now prioritize reducing sodium intake, increasing potassium consumption, and integrating tailored exercise regimens. Pharmacological updates advocate for single-pill combinations and stringent BP targets (<130/80 mmHg), emphasizing the benefits of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors for specific comorbidities. Minimally invasive therapies like renal denervation are explored for resistant hypertension, while digital tools such as telehealth and mobile applications enhance patient engagement and adherence. This multifaceted, patient-centered approach provides a roadmap for optimizing BP control, reducing cardiovascular risks, and addressing the complexities of hypertension in diverse populations.