This report is the outcome of a research project conducted at three
leading academic centers: London School of Economics in the United Kingdom;
Karolinska Institute in Sweden; and State University of New York (SUNY)
Downstate Medical College. Two panels of specialists in high blood pressure
convened - one in Chicago, the other in Barcelona, Spain - during 2006. In
researching issues surrounding hypertension, the experts analyzed existing
practice guidelines, position statements of governments and healthcare
institutions and health economics. The research was funded through an
unrestricted educational grant from Novartis Pharma AG.

The following organizations have reviewed and endorsed the Impact
Report's call to action and recommendations: American Society of
Hypertension, National Kidney Foundation, Asian Hypertension League,
International Diabetes Federation (Europe), International Federation of
Kidney Foundations, International Society of Nephrology, World Hypertension
League, World Stroke Organization incorporating the World Stroke
Federation, International Council of Nurses, the International Stroke
Society and Dr. Georgs Andrejevs, MEP. In addition, the following
organizations have reviewed and support the report's call to action and
recommendations: the European Society of Hypertension and International
Society of Hypertension.

The report authors, Michael Weber, MD, SUNY Downstate Medical College,
New York, Jan Ostergren, MD, PhD, Karolinska University Hospital,
Stockholm, Sweden, and Panos Kanovos, PhD, The London School of Economics,
London, UK, are global leaders in healthcare economics and high blood
pressure treatment.
Media Contact:
Ben Klein
Ruder Finn, Inc.
Tel: 212-583-2784
Email: kleinb@ruderfinn.com

References:
(1) Fitch K, Iwasaki K, and Pyenson B. "Uncontrolled Hypertension: Cost to
Payers and Employers - An Actuarial Analysis performed by Milliman,
Inc." Available from the authors at kate.fitch@milliman.com



SOURCE State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Medical
College