Demonstration of Subclinical Organ Damage to the Central Nervous System in Essential Hypertension

Hypertension is a common condition, which affects approximately 25% of the adult population, with a higher prevalence in black (African origin) people. Presently it is considered to affect 1 billion people worldwide. Essential or primary hypertension, also known as hypertension of unknown cause, constitutes approximately 90-95% of cases of hypertension. It is a major risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases and is responsible for most deaths worldwide. Risk factors for hypertension include family history, ageing, lifestyle (e.g. stress, diet, alcohol), and obesity.