Which percentage of hypertension is idiopathic (essential hypertension)?

• A. Five Percent
• B. Ninety-Five Percent
• C. Fifty Percent
• D. Zero Percent

Answer: (B)

Most hypertension is essential (idiopathic) hypertension, meaning there isn’t a single identifiable cause after evaluation. This form arises from a mixture of genetic factors and lifestyle/environmental influences—things like age, obesity, high salt intake, sedentary behavior, and metabolic changes—rather than a specific disease. Because there isn’t a discrete condition driving it, this category makes up the vast majority of cases. In clinical practice and exams, essential hypertension is typically cited as about 90-95% of all hypertensive patients. The remaining minority represents secondary hypertension, where a treatable condition (such as kidney disease, adrenal disorders, certain endocrine problems, vascular issues, or drug effects) is causing the high blood pressure. So the correct figure reflects that the idiopathic/essential form is the large majority, around ninety-something percent, which is why the answer aligns with approximately 95%.