What is the primary health issue associated with Hypertension (HTN)?

The primary health issue associated with hypertension (HTN) is elevated blood pressure. Hypertension is characterized by consistently high arterial blood pressure levels, which means the force of blood against the artery walls is too high. This condition often develops over many years and can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.

Monitoring and managing blood pressure is crucial because prolonged hypertension can cause the heart to work harder than normal, leading to thickening of the heart muscle and potential heart failure. It can also cause damage to blood vessels in various organs, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events. Thus, understanding that elevated blood pressure is the core characteristic of hypertension is essential for recognizing the associated risks and implementing appropriate treatment strategies.