Controlling isolated systolic hypertension (SBP 160 mmHg and DBP <90 mmHg) in the elderly is also impor- tant. The Systolic Hypertension in Europe (Syst-Eur) Trial randomized 4695 patients with isolated systolic hypertension to active treatment with a calcium channel blocker or placebo and found a 42% (95% CI, 18 60; P=0.02) risk reduction in the actively treated group.257 The Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly Program (SHEP) Trial found a 36% reduction (95% CI, 18 50; P=0.003) in the incidence of stroke from a diuretic- In the Hypertension in the Very Elderly (HYVET) trial, investigators randomized 3845 patients 80 years of age with SBP 160 mmHg to placebo or indap- amide, with perindopril or placebo added as needed to target a BP <150/80 mmHg. After 2 years, there was a reduction in SBP of 15 mmHg, associated with a 30% reduction in risk of stroke (P=0.06), a 39% reduction in fatal stroke (P=0.046), and a 21% reduction in overall mortality (P=0.02).257 No trial has focused on individuals with lesser degrees of isolated sys- tolic hypertension (SBP=140 159 mmHg; DBP <90 mmHg). The most recent National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute appointed panel provides an evidence-based approach to pharma- cological treatment of hypertension.220 The report focuses on age as a guide for therapeutic targets, with recommendations to lower BP pharmacologically to a target of <150/90 mmHg for patients >60 years of age and target a BP of <140/90mmHg for younger patients. 