Epidemiological studies have documented that a close linear relationship exists between blood pressure reduction and cardiovascular disease. Evidence has also been provided that blood pressure reduction by antihypertensive drugs confers cardiovascular protection and that a more aggressive blood pressure target may provide greater cardiovascular benefits. This paper will review the main non-pharmacological as well as pharmacological approaches used to lower elevated blood pressure and thus reduce cardiovascular risk. The main advantages and limitations of each approach will be discussed in the light of the recent recommendations issued by the European Society of Hypertension/European Society of Cardiology.