A Game-Changer in Hypertension Treatment

DALLAS, August 28, 2025 – A groundbreaking development is set to reshape how we approach high blood pressure (BP) management. The Predicting Risk of cardiovascular disease EVENTs (PREVENT™) equations promise not only to enhance risk estimation for cardiovascular diseases but also to personalize treatment for adults battling hypertension. This innovation is highlighted in a new statement published in top-tier journals, including Circulation, Hypertension, and JACC.

What Are the PREVENT Equations?

Developed by the American Heart Association in 2023, the PREVENT™ equations are designed to assess 10- and 30-year risks for total cardiovascular disease, covering a range of conditions from atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease to heart failure. Targeting adults aged 30 to 79 without previous cardiovascular issues, these equations utilize crucial clinical factors such as body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, diabetes status, and even socio-economic indicators to paint a fuller picture of an individual’s cardiovascular health. Unlike the outdated Pooled Cohort Equations which only estimated ASCVD risk, PREVENT™ offers a more comprehensive analysis based on data from over 6 million diverse adults across the United States.

Key Highlights of the New Guidelines

The 2025 High Blood Pressure Guideline embraces the PREVENT™ equations, underscoring their importance for treatment decisions in hypertension management. Key recommendations include:

- Individuals diagnosed with stage 1 hypertension (systolic BP of 130-139 mm Hg or diastolic BP of 80-89 mm Hg) and possessing a PREVENT™-CVD 10-year risk score of 7.5% or higher are encouraged to start medication alongside lifestyle modifications.

Implications for Treatment and Patient Care

This revised approach ensures that the number of individuals advised to begin antihypertensive therapy remains consistent with previous guidelines, alleviating fears of reduced treatment recommendations. The enhanced accuracy of the PREVENT™ equations empowers healthcare providers to pinpoint those who may gain the most from intervention while steering clear of unnecessary medication for low-risk patients.

Integrating PREVENT for Personalized Solutions

Doctors are urged to weave the PREVENT™ equations into individualized care strategies, crafting tailored health plans that concentrate on each patient’s unique situation. As Dr. Daniel W. Jones, a leading voice in the initiative, states, “The new PREVENT equations leverage modern datasets for sharper risk predictions, enabling us to provide more personalized care.”

Looking Ahead: A Healthier Future

The PREVENT™ equations herald a new era in hypertension management, combining insights into cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic health to foster preventative treatment strategies. Dr. Sadiya S. Khan emphasizes that the messages from this approach are clear: hypertension risk can be modified and through the PREVENT equations, care can be personalized. The overarching goal? To empower patients on their journey towards healthier, longer lives.

For those eager to explore the new guidelines and potential advancements in hypertension care, further resources and expert insights are now available, paving the way for significant progress in cardiovascular health.