Which statement about primary hypertension is true?

• A. It is typically chronic with no underlying disease
• B. It is always linked to a specific illness
• C. It resolves quickly with rest
• D. It is caused by a single gene mutation

Answer: (A)

Primary hypertension is a chronic condition that arises from a mix of genetic and environmental factors rather than a disease caused by a single illness. There isn’t an identifiable secondary condition driving the high blood pressure in most adults; instead, multiple influences—like aging, obesity, excess salt intake, physical inactivity, and family history—contribute to long‑term elevation. Over time this leads to persistent high pressure that typically requires ongoing management with lifestyle changes and medications.

That’s why this statement is true: it describes a long‑standing elevation without an identifiable underlying disease causing it. In contrast, hypertension that is clearly linked to a specific illness (secondary hypertension) is not the general case here. Rest does not usually rapidly normalize blood pressure in this condition, so it doesn’t resolve quickly with rest. And it isn’t caused by a single gene mutation; it involves many genes and environmental factors working together.