Which individual is at the greatest risk for developing hypertension?
A. 45-year-old African-American attorney
B. 60-year-old Asian-American shop owner
C. 40-year-old Caucasian nurse
D. 55-year-old Hispanic teacher
Correct Answer: A: 45-year-old African American attorney
Option A: African-Americans develop high blood pressure at younger ages than other groups in the US. Researchers have uncovered that African-Americans respond differently to hypertensive drugs than other groups of people. They are also found out to be more sensitive to salt, which increases the risk of developing hypertension.
Option B: The incidence of hypertension in Asian-Americans does not appear to be significantly higher than the general population, according to limited US data.
Option C: The racial disparity in hypertension and hypertension-related outcomes has been recognized for decades with African-Americans with greater risks than Caucasians.
Option D: Hypertension prevalence rates in Hispanics may vary by gender and country of origin. Hispanic Americans overall have relatively low levels of hypertension, despite elevated levels of diabetes and obesity.