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NIH study finds stroke risk factors may lead to cognitive problems

A recent study by the National Institutes of Health has discovered a correlation between high blood pressure and stroke risk factors with cognitive impairment. The research, which followed over 30,000 participants, found that age, left ventricular hypertrophy, and high blood pressure were independent predictors of cognitive decline.

Take your blood pressure meds before bed

A study by the American Society of Nephrology found that taking blood pressure-lowering medications at bedtime improves blood pressure control and reduces the risk of heart problems. Patients who took their medications before bed had better outcomes than those who took them in the morning.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateOct 24, 2011

Genetic factors behind high blood pressure

Researchers have identified 16 new genetic variations that affect blood pressure, providing a significant step towards better diagnostics and treatment. The discovery was made using genetic data from over 200,000 Europeans and reveals new genetic risk groups to help predict the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature·DateSep 19, 2011

'White-coat effect' elevates greyhounds' blood pressure

A new study has found that retired racing greyhounds' blood pressure increases significantly when taken to a veterinary clinic, but returns to normal at home. The 'white-coat effect' was observed in 22 greyhounds, with systolic pressures averaging 30 points higher in the hospital than at home.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Veterinary Internal Medicine·DateSep 6, 2011

UK study shows ambulatory blood pressure measurements to be the most cost-effective way for diagnosing hypertension

A UK study published in The Lancet concludes that ambulatory blood pressure monitoring is the most cost-effective way to diagnose hypertension. This method, which involves repeated measurements throughout a 24-hour period, is more accurate and correlates better with cardiovascular outcomes than traditional clinic-based methods.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 23, 2011

Gout prevalence swells in US over last 2 decades

A new study finds that gout prevalence has risen significantly in the US adult population, affecting 8.3 million people, while hyperuricemia affects 43.3 million adults. The study suggests that managing modifiable risk factors like obesity and hypertension could help prevent further escalation of gout and hyperuricemia.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJul 28, 2011

JCI online early table of contents: July 18, 2011

Researchers have identified a protein called MYLIP as a potential new target for lowering LDL cholesterol levels, which are associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Additionally, platinum-based drugs have been found to promote anticancer immune responses by disrupting the mechanisms used by tumors to inhibit immune cells.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 18, 2011

Adherence to certain dietary pattern associated with lower BMI in adolescent girls

A study published in Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that adolescent girls who followed a DASH-style diet had smaller gains in overall body mass index (BMI) over 10 years compared to those on other diets. Higher consumption of fruits, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products was associated with less weight gain.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJun 6, 2011

Vitamin D unlocks racial differences in blood pressure

A new study identifies vitamin D as a potential contributor to the racial disparity in blood pressure between Blacks and Whites. The research found that low vitamin D levels were associated with elevated blood pressure readings, accounting for a quarter of the difference between the two groups.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 26, 2011

ACC/AHA issue first clinical guidance for controlling high blood pressure in the elderly

The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association released the first expert consensus document to help clinicians reduce hypertension risks in older adults. The guidelines recommend targeted blood pressure control measures, including medication selection, dose titration, and lifestyle changes.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 25, 2011