Systolic hypertension in the elderly

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As Americans age, both their systolic and diastolic blood pressures increase. The prevalence of diastolic hypertension levels off for people in their 50s. However, that of systolic hypertension continues to rise, and elevation of systolic pressure indicates an increased cardiovascular risk in middle-aged and older Americans, even if their diastolic blood pressure is normal. The effects of treatment on systolic hypertension are not yet clear. The authors summarize the available information and provide pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic management plans for these patients based on what is known to date.