Blood pressure is characterized by short-term and long-term fluctuations, which are the result of complex interactions between environmental and behavioural factors, on the one side, and cardiovascular regulatory mechanisms on the other. Increased blood pressure variability (BPV) leads to cardiac, vascular, and renal damage and has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Parati et al. review the mechanisms, assessment and prognostic importance of BPV. They also address the question of whether BPV should be a target for antihypertensive treatment in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
- Gianfranco Parati
- Juan E. Ochoa
- Grzegorz Bilo
