Arterial hypertension is listed as the first cause of mortality worldwide; therefore diagnosis and treatment of hypertension is a vital issue. ESH/ESC 2007 recommendations did not change the classification of arterial hypertension but endorsed the role of risk assessment as part of the diagnostic process. Current recommendations permit blood pressure to be considered as elevated, though below 140/90 mm Hg, if calculated cardiovascular risk is high. Measurement of blood pressure has still a basic role in diagnosis of hypertension. Auscultatory or oscillometric methods may be used.