Scientific Sessions

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the most prevalent cardiovascular conditions and a major risk factor for vascular disorders such as atherosclerosis, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. It results from a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that disrupt the balance between cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance. Persistent elevation of blood pressure causes structural and functional changes in the blood vessels, including endothelial dysfunction, arterial stiffness, and remodeling of the vascular wall. These alterations impair blood flow regulation and increase the risk of target organ damage affecting the heart, kidneys, brain, and eyes. Advances in vascular biology have provided deeper insights into the molecular pathways involved in hypertension, such as the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), sympathetic overactivity, and oxidative stress, paving the way for more precise diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Modern management of hypertension and vascular disorders emphasizes early detection, lifestyle modification, and individualized treatment plans. Non-invasive diagnostic tools like ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and vascular imaging enable accurate assessment of disease progression. Pharmacological therapies—including ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), calcium channel blockers, diuretics, and beta-blockers—form the cornerstone of hypertension control. For complex vascular diseases, endovascular interventions such as angioplasty, stenting, and bypass grafting restore adequate blood flow and prevent complications. Emerging therapies targeting vascular inflammation, endothelial repair, and arterial elasticity are expanding treatment possibilities. Integrating lifestyle measures—such as healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and smoking cessation—with medical and interventional care offers the most effective approach to reducing cardiovascular risk and improving long-term vascular health.