Recently, several studies have shown the crucial role of viscoelastic properties of the aorta and large arteries in determining blood pressure values. A good knowledge of cardiovascular pathophysiology and vascular hemodynamics is necessary to understand these phenomena. However, available texts on this topic are very complex and difficult for medical practitioners to understand. The aim of this book is to enable the reader to comprehend the relation between cardiovascular pathophysiology and vascular hemodynamics and to become familiar with the more recent guidelines. While very complex physical concepts are involved, care has been taken to ensure that the explanations are as straightforward as possible. Complex analyses are presented separately and can be skipped by the reader without impairment of understanding. It is envisaged that the knowledge imparted will prove invaluable in improving the approach to hypertensive patients.