In this comprehensive recap, host Erin Pardee, PA-C, along with fellow board member John Giacona, PhD, PA-C from UT Southwestern Medical Center, dives into the intriguing highlights from the recent American Heart Association (AHA) Hypertension Scientific Sessions 2024. This conference is a premier gathering for hypertension researchers and clinicians, showcasing the latest advancements in hypertension management, groundbreaking research, and expert-led discussions.

Trending Topics Unveiled: Key Takeaways

Primary Aldosteronism Uncovered: A Silent Epidemic?

Giocona kicked off the discussion with a spotlight on primary aldosteronism, a frequently overlooked yet common form of secondary hypertension. Alarmingly, only about 1% to 2% of eligible patients are screened for this condition. He emphasized the importance of screening specific groups, particularly those suffering from resistant hypertension, patients displaying hypokalemia, or those who discover adrenal incidentalomas during routine examinations. Effective screening methods include evaluating plasma aldosterone concentration, plasma renin activity, and potassium levels, even for patients on medications such as spironolactone.

Renal Denervation: A Game-Changer or Just Another Treatment?

Next on the agenda was the discussion of renal denervation, a newly approved treatment option for resistant hypertension by the FDA. Although renal denervation can lead to modest blood pressure reductions—comparable to adding another antihypertensive drug—its true potential lies in providing relief for patients who find it challenging to manage multiple medications. Giacona explained that the most suitable candidates for this procedure are patients with confirmed combined systolic and diastolic hypertension. However, he warned against renal denervation in patients suffering from secondary causes of hypertension, renal conditions, or anatomical abnormalities like renal artery stenosis.

Don’t Miss Out on Future Insights!

As the dialogue wound down, Giacona enthusiastically encouraged cardiologists, nephrologists, endocrinologists, and healthcare providers of all kinds to mark their calendars for the next AHA Hypertension Scientific Sessions, set to take place from September 4 to 7, 2025, in Baltimore, MD.

Final Note:

During the recording, Giacona mistakenly stated renal denervation achieves a remarkable 5% average blood pressure reduction. He later clarified that the correct figure is a reduction of approximately 5 mmHg.

Stay tuned for more insights in future episodes of The APAC Recap, available on HCPLive.com and our YouTube channel. Keep your knowledge current and ensure you’re not missing critical updates in hypertension management!