Hypertension affects about 30% of the adult population in the United States and is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular disease including coronary artery disease, stroke, and congestive heart failure. Along with diabetes, it is also responsible for many cases of end-stage renal disease, retinopathy, and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Approximately 30% of adults in the United States who have hypertension are unaware, and only about 50% of those diagnosed are adequately controlled. The prevalence continues to increase as our population ages and obesity worsens. Hypertension affects all races but African Americans in general have an earlier onset, are more difficult to control, and have a higher rate of complications than Caucasian Americans.