Research on high blood pressure and its consequences. Covers heart-failure prediction, kidney-disease models, AI detection, and cardiovascular risk.
A massive global genetic study has identified over 500 new gene regions influencing blood pressure, more than tripling the known number. The study now explains almost a third of estimated heritability for blood pressure.
Resistant hypertension affects 12-15% of patients with high blood pressure, who require three or more medications to control it. Improving lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and weight can lower blood pressure.
A new study by UCSF researchers reveals that nearly one in seven older veterans with hypertension are discharged with increased blood pressure medications despite having well-controlled blood pressure prior to their hospital stay. The study suggests a potential risk of medication harm due to overtreatment, particularly among older adults.
A large study of 5.4 million adults found that high blood pressure is associated with an increased risk of developing aortic stenosis and regurgitation. The findings suggest that controlling blood pressure may be a way to prevent these conditions.
A new $3 million grant will test a unique program educating people with uncontrolled hypertension about getting their blood pressure under control. Participants will receive either usual care or view a video and ultrasound images to empower themselves.
A pilot initiative found that home blood pressure monitoring improved hypertension control in 86% of patients. The study also showed significant cost savings from reduced office visits and emergency department costs.
A study presented at the American Heart Association's Joint Hypertension 2018 Scientific Sessions found that lifestyle changes, including a healthier diet and regular exercise, can greatly decrease the number of patients who need blood pressure-lowering medicine. By making these changes, nearly half of participants were able to reduce ...
A proof-of-concept blood pressure app has been developed using iPhone optical and force sensors, rivalling arm-cuff readings. The app aims to improve hypertension awareness and control rates, potentially reducing cardiovascular disease and mortality.
A recent study found that black adults are at higher risk for dangerous blood pressure spikes, with nearly 90% of those experiencing hypertensive crisis being black. The study also revealed that anemia and chronic kidney disease can increase the risk of hypertensive emergencies.
A recent study presented at the American Heart Association's Joint Hypertension Scientific Sessions found that children with food insecurity are more likely to have high blood pressure. The researchers analyzed data from over 7,000 children and found that nearly one-fifth had food insecurity, while more than 12% had high blood pressure.
A study of black women found that those who slept less than 7 hours a night had higher blood pressure and lower levels of physical activity. The researchers suggest that addressing sleep quality is crucial for combating obesity and high blood pressure in this population.
Researchers found that high levels of aldosterone increase insulin resistance and impair insulin secretion, leading to a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. African Americans with high aldosterone levels have almost a three-fold increased risk, while Chinese Americans are 10 times more likely to develop diabetes.
A Swiss study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that children born through IVF may have a higher risk of developing arterial hypertension by age 16. The study measured ambulatory blood pressure and found that ART adolescents had a higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure than control participants.
The prevalence of hypertension globally is high and continues to increase. Targeted and population-based strategies can lead to better prevention and control of hypertension.
A study found that febuxostat significantly reduced the rate of primary endpoint events, including cerebral and cardiovascular disease. Lowering serum uric acid levels also decreased renal impairment and related complications.
Patients with high blood pressure are at increased risk of developing dementia within five years, yet cognitive function is not routinely measured. A clock drawing test was found to be more effective in detecting cognitive impairment than the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) in adults with high blood pressure.
Research suggests that patients with high blood pressure are more likely to rely on medication rather than reducing their salt intake, leading to higher blood pressure levels and increased medication use. Salt restriction is recommended as a key strategy to manage hypertension, but many patients fail to adhere to guidelines.
A long-term study found that blood pressure lowering treatment with a calcium channel blocker plus statin reduces cardiovascular deaths by 29% compared to older therapy. Statins also show significant benefits, with 15% lower cardiovascular death rates in patients with average cholesterol levels.
The guidelines recommend starting most patients on two blood pressure lowering drugs as a single tablet to improve control rates and reduce strokes, heart disease, and early deaths. A healthy lifestyle is also recommended for all patients, regardless of blood pressure level.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that patients with hypertension who experience unusually low blood pressures are twice as likely to experience a fall or faint. The study suggests that physicians should weigh the risks and benefits of aggressive blood pressure lowering on an individual basis, especially in older patients.
A new rat study suggests that individual variations in genetic makeup and gut bacteria may explain the different effects of antibiotics on blood pressure. The researchers treated two strains of rats with three common antibiotics, resulting in distinct responses in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. These findings highlight the impo...
Research analyzed data from over 25,000 individuals in China to determine early life nutrition's role in metabolic disorders. The study found significant associations between low birth weight and increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.
A new University College London study finds that lower indoor temperatures are associated with higher blood pressure, suggesting that keeping homes warmer could help manage hypertension. Researchers found that a decrease of 1°C in indoor temperature leads to rises in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
A large-scale study found a positive association between body mass index and blood pressure, with a mean increase of 0.8-1.7 mm Hg per unit increase in BMI. The study's findings have implications for China's high blood pressure crisis and suggest the need for earlier and more frequent use of antihypertensive drugs.
A randomized clinical trial found that a pill containing low doses of three antihypertensive drugs resulted in a greater percentage of patients achieving their target blood pressure goal. The study included 700 patients in Sri Lanka who were not receiving treatment or taking one medication.
A new low-dose three-in-one pill has been shown to effectively treat high blood pressure in most patients, with a 70% success rate compared to half receiving normal care. The 'Triple Pill' is simpler and more cost-effective than traditional treatment methods.
Researchers have made a major breakthrough in developing a new treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension, identifying a drug that inhibits HIF-2α and reverses established PAH, suppression of vascular remodeling and right heart failure, and increased survival.
A large national study finds that inducing labor at 39 weeks reduces cesarean deliveries, maternal and fetal complications. Women who underwent elective induction reported less pain and lower rates of preeclampsia and gestational hypertension.
Researchers found that bright light therapy increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 10 mm Hg in rats with inherited hypertension, a effect that persisted for several hours. In contrast, healthy animals with normal blood pressure showed no changes.
Researchers found that obese women had a thicker left ventricle, lower E/A ratio, and higher systolic blood pressure compared to normal or overweight women. These changes may explain their predisposition to preeclampsia and cardiovascular complications during pregnancy.
Researchers at UH College of Pharmacy discovered that Angiotensin 1-7, a peptide found in humans, can relieve oxidative stress and reduce blood pressure. This finding offers a potential alternative to current medication with fewer side effects.
Researchers found that a simplified intervention can significantly improve rates of blood pressure control in safety-net clinics, with success seen across all racial and ethnic groups. The program adapted treatment algorithms and tracking systems to suit the needs of patients with high-risk profiles.
The new guidelines will dramatically increase the number of people with hypertension, especially in China, where over half of those aged 45-75 years will be considered hypertensive. This could lead to a significant increase in treatment numbers, with up to 130 million untreated patients in China.
A recent study found that approximately 75% of black adults and 40% of white women are likely to develop high blood pressure by the age of 55. Lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet and exercising regularly, can significantly reduce the risk of high blood pressure.
A genetic marker associated with salt sensitivity in blood pressure has been discovered, which could lead to a simple diagnostic test. The finding is relevant given that nearly all US adults exceed the recommended daily salt intake and is linked to increased cardiovascular risk.
A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that women with high blood pressure during pregnancy are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease risk factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. The risk factors emerged shortly after pregnancy and persisted for decades.
Women with a history of preeclampsia or gestational hypertension in pregnancy developed chronic hypertension at a 2- to 3-fold higher rate than those with normal blood pressure. They also had significantly higher rates of type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol, highlighting the need for lifelong cardiovascular screening.
Scientists investigate how high blood pressure affects the balance between blood flow and neuron activity in the brain. High blood pressure can lead to increased calcium levels in astrocytes, which may trigger inflammation and alter protective mechanisms.
A research team led by Iowa State University's José Rosa found that setbacks can prompt people to reassess the cost-benefits of their health-related goals, potentially leading to quitting. The study's findings suggest that targeted interventions can help patients shift their mindset from renegotiation back to implementation.
A new study by Brigham and Women's Hospital confirms the relationship between sodium intake and increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death. The research suggests that an imprecise evaluation of sodium intake may have contributed to paradoxical results in previous studies, emphasizing the importance of accurate measurement methods.
Researchers found no evidence that vitamin D levels are associated with a reduced risk of gestational hypertension or pre-eclampsia. However, low vitamin D levels during pregnancy can increase the risk of these conditions by suppressing blood pressure-regulating hormones. Further studies are needed to confirm the findings.
Dr. Jennifer C. Sullivan has been awarded the inaugural John Laragh Research Award and Mid-Career Award for Research Excellence for her research on gender differences in hypertension. She is a prominent investigator in cardiovascular and renal sciences, with multiple NIH funding awards.
Researchers found that patients with high blood pressure are at higher risk of developing dementia and show early signs of brain damage on MRI scans. These changes can be detected before symptoms appear, allowing for earlier intervention to prevent further deterioration.
Research from the Whitehall II study found that 50-year-olds with systolic blood pressure above 130mmHg have a 45% greater risk of developing dementia. This association was not seen at ages 60 and 70, suggesting a link between midlife hypertension and brain health.
A recent study found that people taking single-pill combinations for hypertension had a lower rate of cardiovascular events and death compared to those taking multiple pills. This simple intervention has the potential to save thousands of lives globally by improving adherence to medication regimens.
A Johns Hopkins study analyzed 250 user reviews and found that high star ratings do not guarantee medical accuracy. Despite disclaimers warning users against relying on the app for medical monitoring, diagnosis, or treatment effectiveness, many people continued to use it for these purposes.
A new study found that Medicaid expansion increased visits, asthma treatment, and hypertension control in rural community health centers, while also reducing uninsurance rates. The study suggests that expanding Medicaid can improve healthcare outcomes in rural areas.
A randomized controlled trial found that paramedic-run health sessions significantly reduced the number of 911 calls and improved quality of life for seniors living in subsidized housing. The program, known as CP@clinic, offered blood pressure and diabetes assessments, as well as referrals to healthcare and education.
A study found that virtual follow-up visits for hypertension care had similar outcomes to in-person office visits, with no significant difference in blood pressure control or need for specialty visits. This innovation could expand access to primary care services while reducing healthcare utilization.
Under the new guideline, an estimated 31 million more US adults will have high blood pressure, requiring antihypertensive treatment. The revised definition of high blood pressure, above 130/80 mm Hg, may lead to increased treatment recommendations.
A new surgery involving ultrasound energy has been found to significantly reduce blood pressure in patients with hypertension. The operation targets the nerves connected to the kidney and uses a one-hour procedure called 'renal denervation'. This could offer an alternative to lifelong medications for high blood pressure.
Exposure to high levels of air pollution during pregnancy is associated with elevated systolic blood pressure in childhood. The study analyzed data from 1,293 mothers and their children, finding that those exposed to higher levels of fine particulate matter had a 61% increased risk of elevated blood pressure.
Chronic medical conditions are common in women with urinary incontinence, linked to increased cardiovascular risk. Pulmonary diseases like asthma also affected many women, highlighting the need for prevention and treatment efforts targeting modifiable conditions.
Researchers developed a wireless, stretchable hybrid electronic system for real-time sodium monitoring in the oral cavity. The device integrates miniaturized chip-scale technology and microstructured sensors to measure sodium intake wirelessly.
A flexible and stretchable wireless sensing system was developed to measure sodium consumption in people with hypertension. The device is designed to be comfortably worn in the mouth and can report sodium intake to a smartphone or tablet.
Two Canadian studies assess the benefits and costs of incorporating lower systolic blood pressure targets into clinical practice. Adopting these targets could prevent 100,000 deaths annually but would also increase treatment initiation rates and healthcare expenditures.
A new study finds that nurse-led task shifting combined with health insurance coverage is an effective strategy to control hypertension in Ghana. The intervention led to a greater reduction in systolic blood pressure compared to health insurance coverage alone.
A study by the American College of Cardiology found that women are underrepresented in cardiovascular trials, with proportions ranging from 22-81% compared to disease populations. Researchers emphasize the need for better representation to determine potential gender differences in treatment responses.
Researchers found kefir supplementation reduced endotoxins, blood pressure, and improved intestinal permeability in hypertensive rats. Kefir restored the natural balance of bacteria and an enzyme essential for normal nervous system function, suggesting a gut-brain axis connection.
The new American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines have led to an increase in the prevalence of elevated blood pressure among US children. This is largely due to the exclusion of overweight or obese children from normal blood pressure charts and revised diagnostic thresholds aligned with adult definitions.