Chronic elevation in blood pressure (bp), as defined by 2017 Hypertension Guidelines (Table 119-1). Hypertension is major contributor to cardiovascular diseases and complications; etiology is unknown in 80–95% of pts (“essential hypertension”). Always consider a secondary correctable form of hypertension, especially in pts aged ≤30 or those who become hypertensive after 55. Isolated systolic hypertension (systolic ≥140, diastolic <90) most common in elderly pts, due to reduced vascular compliance.