Following in the fine tradition of previous biennial meetings, the XVIIth Scientific Sessions of the Inter-American Society of Hypertension (IASH) will provide a critical forum in which to present scientific work related to hypertension, atherosclerosis, the metabolic syndrome, and obesity. The program will afford participants ample opportunities to present both basic and clinically related work in the form of posters, oral presentations, and invited lectures and symposia.

Special clinical symposia will focus on updating clinical guidelines for management of global risk factors, epidemiology of hypertension in Latin-American countries, new insights into the role of hypertension in diabetes, dyslipidemia, the metabolic syndrome, and obesity. In addition, complementary sessions will address new aspects of clinical hypertension research on genetics, role of prostanoids in the inflammatory processes associated with hypertensive vascular disease and atherosclerosis, as well as newer insights into the role of the renin angiotensin system in the pathogenesis of hypertension and vascular disease. Additional featured research symposia will address the emerging role of renin inhibitors in the management of hypertension, renal disease, and heart failure. Sessions in the epidemiology and prevention of hypertension related target organ damage will provide an update on aspects of the problem throughout the Americas.

We are also honored to announce that the XVIIth Scientific Sessions of the IASH will provide a forum for the initiation of the first cycle of awards for candidates to be recognized as IASH-Hypertension Specialists. Those candidates who successfully complete the requirements for this nomination will be accredited at a special ceremony during the meeting. Clinicians interested in being certified should seek the pertinent information in the accompanying section as indicated below.

Program Objectives
The conference provides an educational experience for hypertensinologists, cardiologists, nephrologists, nurses, allied health professionals, and basic researchers in the major fields of hypertension, heart, kidney, brain, and vascular physiology and pathology
The main objectives are:

• To present recent advances in the biology of hypertension, atherosclerosis, vascular disease, renal disease, stroke, diabetes, and the metabolic syndrome;
• To highlight new diagnosis, treatment and preventive approaches to hypertension and related-target organ disorders, including stroke and cerebrovascular disease;
• To present new and ongoing clinical trial findings through the late-breaking Science session and Ongoing Clinical Trials posters;
• To provide a forum for exchange of new research by scientists and investigators working in hypertension.
  

Learning Objectives
After attending the IASH-2007 meetings, participants will be able to:

• Discuss the pathophysiology of hypertension and related diseases of the heart, kidney, and blood vessels;
• Identify trends and new directions for cardiovascular research;
• Understand the role of hypertension in women, children, and minorities.