Hypertension is a risk factor for a wide range of cardiovascular conditions. It is believed to be caused, in part, by the formation of a substance called angiotensin II, which is the body's most potent constrictor of blood vessels and mediates the retention of sodium and water.

In 2001, there were about 100 million hypertensive patients being treated in the U.S., Japan, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Spain. If hypertensive patients are not treated properly, they can suffer severe consequences such as heart attack, stroke and death. Approximately 80 million additional patients in these countries remain untreated for their hypertension. Only half of hypertensive patients who are being treated are adequately treated to goal.

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