http://www.drbriffa.com/2012/08/17/trea ... effective/
Researchers from the generally respected collective known as the ‘Cochrane Collaboration’ have just published a review [1] of the relevant evidence here. They looked at data from studies in which people with systolic blood pressures (the higher blood pressure reading) of 140-159 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressures (the lower reading) of 90-99 mmHg. Individuals in these trials had no prior history of cardiovascular disease (e.g. previous heart attack or stroke). Four studies which included about 9,000 patients in total were analysed. Average length of treatment was between 4 and 5 years. So, lots of people, and a decent duration of treatment too.
Results showed that in those treated with active medication (compared to placebo) were:
At no reduced risk of developing heart disease
At no reduced risk of stroke
At no reduced risk of ‘total cardiovascular events’ (essentially heart attacks and strokes combined)
At no reduced risk of overall risk of death