Uncontrolled hypertension—also known as high blood pressure—can increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, heart failure, and kidney disease. Heart disease and stroke are the two leading causes of American death.
According to the CDC, one in three US adults has high blood pressure—and only half of them have it under control. This creates long-term damage to the body’s arteries and heart, which in turn affects the brain, kidneys, and eyes.
High blood pressure is estimated to cost the US $48.6 billion annually. Since the early 90s, it has rapidly risen to be the number one contributing factor to life-threatening conditions like heart attack and stroke.
Existing medications like beta blockers don’t work for everyone, and can carry significant side effects. There is an urgent need for more treatment options for high blood pressure—which is where research studies can help.
