No net health benefit derived from a lower blood pressure target

The Cochrane Hypertension Group updated their original 2017 Cochrane Review to determine if 'lower' blood pressure targets (equal to or below 135/85 mmHg) are associated with a reduction in mortality and morbidity compared to standard (equal to or below 140/85 mmHg) targets in the treatment of people with hypertension and a history of cardiovascular disease (angina, stroke, peripheral vascular occlusive disease, myocardial infarction). 

The authors found no differences in total deaths, vascular or heart deaths, total heart or vascular problems, nor in total serious harms, between lower and standard blood pressure targets.

The best available evidence does not support lower blood pressure targets over standard targets in people with elevated blood pressure and vascular or heart problems.  More new trials are needed to examine this question.

Updated review: Blood pressure targets for the treatment of people with hypertension and cardiovascular disease