Genetics of essential hypertension.
OBJECTIVE
To inform healthcare providers of the genetics involved in the development of essential hypertension and to illustrate the role the healthcare provider has in the management of patients with essential hypertension.


METHODS
Research-based articles in the medical literature, selected published literature in refereed journals, and Internet sites.


CONCLUSIONS
Essential hypertension is a complex chronic disease that affects many people and has grave implications for the patient. Genetics involved in the development of essential hypertension and treatment choices is evolving; therefore, the healthcare provider must be knowledgeable in these areas to effectively care for patients with hypertension.


CONCLUSIONS
Essential hypertension is a chronic disease that affects over 50 million people in the United States. Advances in genetics are allowing scientists to discover the genetic basis of hypertension. With knowledge of genetics and environmental factors involved in the development of essential hypertension, healthcare providers will be able to more effectively screen, manage, and treat individuals with hypertension.
Coy
Virginia
V
Trauma Services/Austin Medical Education Program, Brackenridge Hospital, Austin, TX 78701, USA.
D015984:Causality; D002983:Clinical Competence; D004032:Diet / Q000009:adverse effects; D004781:Environmental Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics*; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000941:ethics / Q000379:methods; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics* / Q000628:therapy; D040582:Inheritance Patterns / Q000235:genetics; D008487:Medical History Taking; D008875:Middle Aged; D009722:Nurse Practitioners / Q000458:organization & administration; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010375:Pedigree; D010597:Pharmacogenetics; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000150:complications