Today it is considered a primary goal to reduce morbidity and mortality from stroke. It will probably also be possible to reduce other pressure-related illnesses, such as heart failure and renal failure. Coronary morbidity is influenced to some extent only, and involves risk of over-treatment. There is most probably a J-shaped relationship between achieved reduction of pressure and mortality. Treatment with drugs is considered when diastolic pressures exceed 90 mm Hg, provided that the patient has been observed when treated in other ways than by drugs for several months. If no other risk factors are present, 5-10 mm Hg higher diastolic blood pressure levels can be accepted. However, all patients with diastolic pressure above 100 mm Hg should be treated. In patients with coronary disease it is advisable not to lower diastolic blood pressure below 85 mm Hg. One should hesitate to give antihypertensive drugs to individuals with high pressures at the doctor's and normal pressures at home. They should preferably receive intense non-drug treatment aimed at reducing total cardiovascular risk.