Global Hypertension 2000 to 2020 | JACC Author Interviews

In this interview in JACC's May 12 issue focusing on hypertension, JACC Editor-in-Chief Harlan M. Krumholz, MD, SM, MACC speaks with first author Samantha S. O'Connell, MS, MD, as they discuss a comprehensive global analysis of hypertension trends from 2000 to 2020, drawing on data from nearly 300 population-based studies across 119 countries. The findings show that while awareness and treatment have improved modestly—especially in high-income countries—the global burden of hypertension has grown to 1.7 billion adults, with most uncontrolled cases now concentrated in low- and middle-income countries. The conversation emphasizes widening disparities, persistently low control rates, and the urgent need to implement proven strategies worldwide.