Why So Many on BP Meds Still Miss Target

Most U.S. adults with hypertension missed blood pressure targets—including those on treatment—highlighting gaps in initiation and intensification of therapy, new JAMA data show.

By
Kathryn Wighton
February 2, 2026
3 min

Conexiant

Overview

Revise to specify that nearly 80% of individuals on therapy still exceed targets.

Background

Hypertension is a prevalent condition affecting a large segment of the adult population, with serious implications for cardiovascular health. Despite the availability of antihypertensive medications, many patients fail to achieve target blood pressure levels, which can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. Understanding the factors contributing to this treatment gap is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Data Highlights

Blood Pressure Control	Untreated Adults	Treated Adults
≥10 mmHg above goal	34.6%	52.6%
≥20 mmHg above goal	12.8%	24.7%
≥30 mmHg above goal	5.7%	10.8%

Key Findings

Nearly 80% of US adults with hypertension exceed recommended blood pressure thresholds.
61% of adults with uncontrolled blood pressure are not on antihypertensive medication.
Adults on medication are more likely to have significantly elevated blood pressure levels compared to untreated individuals.
Many untreated adults with uncontrolled BP are within 10 mmHg of target levels, suggesting potential for improvement with treatment.
Older adults with comorbidities are more likely to be on antihypertensive therapy but still miss targets.

Clinical Implications

List specific lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, that could aid in BP control.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the importance of addressing treatment gaps in hypertension management, particularly among those already receiving therapy. Enhanced strategies for monitoring and adjusting treatment are essential for improving blood pressure control.