Vnitr Lek 2026, 72(2):99-103 | DOI: 10.36290/vnl.2026.021

Hypertension in women and men

Barbora Nussbaumerová

Centrum preventivní kardiologie, II. interní klinika LF a FN v Plzni, UK v Praze

This paper summarizes current knowledge on the epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and the potential development of target organ damage in hypertension in women and men, with an emphasis on sex-related differences, based on current clinical guidelines. Women have a lower prevalence of hypertension at a younger age; however, after menopause, prevalence may equal or even exceed that in men. Women with high-normal blood pressure may be more likely to develop hypertension than men. Compared with men, women may be more susceptible to hypertension-related target organ damage, and hypertension in women may be associated with a higher risk of ischemic heart disease and stroke. In both sexes, the cornerstone of therapy consists of lifestyle interventions and pharmacological treatment in accordance with current guidelines (ACE inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers, diuretics, calcium channel blockers, and beta-blockers), with specific exceptions during pregnancy and pregnancy planning. The management of hypertension in women must take into account reproductive plans, the possibility of pregnancy, and menopause-related changes. A personalized approach and the implementation of the most recent guidelines may improve cardiovascular prognosis. Further research is needed to elucidate sex differences in hypertension.

Keywords: hypertension, intersex difference, pregnancy, pharmacotherapy, hormonal treatment, menopause, guidelines.

Accepted: March 25, 2026; Published: April 8, 2026  Show citation