Role of 24-hour blood pressure management in preventing kidney disease and stroke.

Apart from the well-known role of hypertension in cerebrovascular disease, chronic kidney disease is emerging as an independent risk factor for stroke. Although the mechanism underlying the relationship between blood pressure variability, diurnal blood pressure variation disruption (e.g. nondipping) and kidney dysfunction is not fully understood, these factors are closely associated with each other. This review article summarizes the recent literature on these topics. Cerebral small vessel disease is considered to serve as a common pathophysiology in the relationship of hypertension and chronic kidney disease with cognitive impairment and stroke. Strict 24-hour blood pressure control is necessary to prevent the progression of kidney dysfunction, dementia and stroke.