Which of the following is NOT a consequence of hypertension?

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant health concern that can lead to various serious complications. The correct answer identifies a consequence that does not correlate with hypertension.

Increased blood pressure can lead to several serious health issues. Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, often due to blood vessels that have narrowed from the effects of hypertension. Similarly, hypertension can cause damage to the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision issues and potentially blindness. Moreover, the kidneys can also be adversely affected; chronic hypertension can lead to renal failure due to excessive strain on the renal vasculature.

In contrast, decreased cholesterol is not a direct consequence of hypertension. In fact, hypertension itself does not influence cholesterol levels in the body. It is more concerned with vascular health and circulatory dynamics than lipid metabolism. This distinction is crucial for understanding the broader implications of managing blood pressure in relation to overall cardiovascular health.