From the Research
NICE CG179 guidelines primarily focus on the prevention and management of hypertension, emphasizing lifestyle modifications and pharmacological interventions to reduce blood pressure and associated cardiovascular risks. The guidelines recommend a comprehensive approach to managing hypertension, including regular risk assessment, lifestyle interventions, and pharmacological therapy. Key aspects of the guidelines include:
- Lifestyle modifications such as weight loss, healthy dietary patterns, physical activity, and moderation of alcohol consumption 1
- First-line pharmacological therapy with thiazide or thiazide-like diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers, and calcium channel blockers 1
- Titration of medication according to office and home blood pressure levels to achieve target blood pressure levels (<130/80 mm Hg for adults <65 years and systolic blood pressure <130 mm Hg in adults ≥65 years) 1
- Consideration of combination therapy for patients who do not achieve adequate blood pressure control with monotherapy 2
- Emphasis on maintaining healthy lifestyle factors, such as a healthy body mass index, diet, and physical activity level, to lower systolic blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease 3 The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2023, highlights the importance of lifestyle modifications and adherence to antihypertensive medication in achieving effective blood pressure control 3. Overall, the guidelines prioritize a multifaceted approach to managing hypertension, incorporating both lifestyle interventions and pharmacological therapy to reduce blood pressure and associated cardiovascular risks. Main points to consider in treatment recommendations include:
- Regular risk assessment and comprehensive care planning
- Lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss and healthy dietary patterns
- First-line pharmacological therapy with thiazide or thiazide-like diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers, and calcium channel blockers
- Titration of medication according to office and home blood pressure levels
- Consideration of combination therapy for patients who do not achieve adequate blood pressure control with monotherapy.