Final answer:
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can be primarily caused by genetic and lifestyle factors or secondarily by diseases like chronic kidney disease. Proper management is crucial to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Early detection and treatment can prevent these serious complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hypertension and Its Causes
Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition where the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. Primary hypertension accounts for about 90% of the cases and can be attributed to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, such as poor diet, excess dietary salt, alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, and obesity. Secondary hypertension, comprising the remaining 10% of cases, is usually caused by other underlying conditions such as chronic kidney disease or endocrine disorders like Cushing's disease.
Management and treatment of hypertension are crucial for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure, and more. Lifestyle modifications and medications are the primary means of controlling blood pressure to prevent these complications.
Assessing individual risk factors and conducting proper diagnostic tests like an electrocardiogram can assist in the early detection and management of hypertension, thereby reducing the risk of subsequent cardiovascular diseases.