Articles tagged with Hypertension
Researchers identified EP1 as a key factor in blood pressure regulation and found that inhibiting it can reduce hypertension. Targeting this receptor subtype may be a viable approach to treating high blood pressure.
Researchers found genomic determinants underlying alcohol and tobacco use on chromosomes 1, 3, and 4. A common locus for both was discovered on chromosome 1, with a linked area for smoking also present. The study suggests sex-specific genetic factors may contribute to the observed sex differences in alcohol and tobacco use rates.
Researchers found that impaired energy production in heart muscle may underlie heart failure in some hypertensive patients. A protein called estrogen-related receptor alpha (ERR alpha) helps the heart keep up with energy-draining conditions like high blood pressure.
Researchers identified distinct genetic factors for blood pressure regulation in males and females, shedding light on gender-based disparities in cardiovascular health. The study's findings suggest that genetic diagnostic and therapeutic indices for hypertension must consider gender differences.
Researchers have found that grape seed polyphenols reduce salt-sensitive hypertension in young rats, while soy polyphenols protect against hypertension in estrogen-depleted/ovariectomized rats. Kudzu root extract also blunts blood pressure rise and improves glucose tolerance in animal models of insulin resistance.
Researchers found that less than a third of treatment guidelines are based on high-quality evidence, highlighting the need for transparent grading systems. The study concludes that clinicians should be aware of this limitation and apply guideline recommendations appropriately to individual patients.
The combination of aliskiren and valsartan significantly lowers blood pressure in patients with hypertension, with a mean drop of 12.2mm Hg compared to 9.0mm Hg for monotherapy. However, the treatment is limited by potential life-threatening side effects, including hyperkalemia.
A Norwegian regulation requiring doctors to prescribe thiazides as first-line treatment for hypertension has led to substantial savings in drug costs. The study found that the proportion of patients prescribed thiazides increased from one in ten to one in four, and blood pressure goals were met by a slightly higher percentage.
Researchers found that a nutritionally balanced diet high in omega-3 fatty acid reduced prostate tumor growth and increased survival in genetically predisposed mice. Omega-6 fatty acids had the opposite effects. The study suggests a beneficial effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on delaying human prostate cancer.
The new guidelines provide up-to-date information on best practices and practical recommendations for diagnosing, assessing, and treating arterial hypertension. The update is based on a thorough review of scientific data from large clinical trials and observational studies.
A study by Emory University researchers has found a significant association between restless legs syndrome and high blood pressure. People with moderate to severe RLS are at increased risk for developing hypertension, with the likelihood of hypertension increasing by 50 percent in those who experienced over 30 PLMs per hour of sleep.
Researchers found a strong association between high arterial pulse pressure and high-tension open-angle glaucoma. Individuals with high pulse pressure were more likely to develop the condition, possibly due to increased carotid arterial stiffness.
Substituting soy nuts for protein sources improves blood pressure and cholesterol levels in postmenopausal women. The study found significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as decreased 'bad' cholesterol levels, in women with high blood pressure.
A new international study involving over 10,700 people with high blood pressure found that single-tablet combinations of drugs can bring blood pressure under control for up to 80% of US patients. The six-month treatment period saw a near-doubling of the proportion of patients achieving controlled blood pressure.
A new study shows Pycnogenol supplementation can prevent damage to the heart caused by high blood pressure and hypertension. The natural pine bark extract enhanced collagen connective tissues in cardiac tissue, resulting in stronger cardiac chambers.
A meta-analysis of over 32,000 women and their babies found that taking aspirin or other antiplatelet drugs during pregnancy reduces the risk of pre-eclampsia by 10%. The treatment also has no significant effect on fetal or baby health outcomes.
A study published in Neurology found that people with migraines are 1.3-1.5 times more likely to develop retinopathy than those without headaches. The association was strongest among those with migraine headaches and other headaches with aura, even after controlling for diabetes, glucose levels, and blood pressure.
Researchers found that a single-tablet combination of atorvastatin and amlodipine is less costly and at least as effective in preventing cardiovascular events. The study suggests this approach may be beneficial for patients with high blood pressure, potentially improving treatment outcomes and reducing medical costs.
Research suggests that chunky adolescents are headed in the wrong direction regarding cardiovascular health, with increased blood pressure and sodium intake found across all weight categories.
The review of six large-scale clinical trials found that aliskiren was not more effective than existing antihypertensive drugs in controlling blood pressure. The drug's inability to effectively lower blood pressure was attributed to its stimulation of kidney renin secretion, which can counteract its antihypertensive capabilities.
A study found that new immigrant women had lower risks of maternal placental syndrome and related complications during pregnancy compared to those who had lived in the country for longer. The risk increased with length of residence in Ontario.
Researchers found a link between taking centrally active ACE inhibitors and lower rates of mental decline, with a 50% lower decline in test results compared to other high blood pressure pills. The study suggests that these drugs may slow cognitive decline by reducing inflammation in the brain.
The study found that females have higher levels of nitric oxide synthase, which may contribute to their lower risk of kidney disease. In contrast, males have more AT1 receptors that enable angiotensin 2 to cause damage, leading to a greater risk of hypertension and kidney injury.
Eight South African plant extracts have been found to inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity, a potential treatment for high blood pressure. The study identified Tulbaghia violacea, commonly known as wild garlic, as the most promising plant with over 50% ACE inhibition in both extract forms.
A study of hospitalized patients with cirrhosis and complications of portal hypertension reveals significant racial disparities in treatment, with African-American and Hispanic patients less likely to receive palliative shunts, liver transplants, and prompt endoscopy. These disparities were independent of health insurance status.
A study found that liver stiffness measurement by transient elastography can predict severe portal hypertension in patients with hepatitis C-related cirrhosis. The technique is less invasive than traditional methods like HVPG measurement and shows promise for non-invasive diagnosis.
A study found that the use of antithrombotic drugs like aspirin has led to an increase in intracerebral hemorrhagic stroke deaths among older adults. The researchers analyzed data from two studies and found that the proportion of patients taking these medications who experienced strokes increased significantly over time.
The University of Texas researcher, James D. Stockand, has been awarded the 2007 Henry Pickering Bowditch Memorial Award for his work on regulating sodium channels and its potential to control hypertension. His research may lead to better treatment methods for this serious condition.
A scoring system based on weight, gender, age, blood pressure and clot risk accurately predicts patient mortality after gastric bypass surgery. The system categorizes patients as low-risk, medium-risk or high-risk, with those in the high-risk group facing a six times higher mortality rate.
Richard Lifton was honored with the prestigious Alfred Newton Richards Award at the WCN 2007, recognized for his outstanding basic research in nephrology. His work has significantly advanced our understanding of the molecular and genetic basis of renal and cardiovascular disease.
Researchers are investigating the effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction and progressive muscle relaxation on people with prehypertension. The goal is to identify treatment options during this stage, leading to a healthier community and reversal of heart disease.
A University of Georgia study found that giving commonly prescribed blood pressure medications within 24 hours of a stroke can significantly reduce brain damage. The finding may revolutionize emergency stroke care by adding these medications to clot-busting and blood thinners as front-line treatments.
Scientists at the University of Bristol have found that inflammation caused by trapped white blood cells can obstruct blood flow to the brain, leading to poor oxygen supply. This discovery suggests a new mechanism for high blood pressure, with potential therapeutic targets for treatment.
A new University of Minnesota study reveals that young adults who engage in regular physical activity have a reduced risk of developing high blood pressure within 15 years. The research found that participants who exercised five times a week and expended 300 calories per session experienced a significant reduction in hypertension risk.
A meta-analysis of 10 previous studies found that consuming cocoa products reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure, comparable to the effects of blood pressure-lowering medications. However, drinking tea was not associated with a reduction in blood pressure in any of the trials.
A study found that individuals without health insurance are more likely to forego routine physical exams and have a higher risk of unawareness of high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol levels. Hypertension is the most powerful risk factor for stroke, and those without insurance had poorly controlled hypertension.
Researchers monitored nearly 7,000 participants of different ethnic backgrounds, revealing that African Americans developed heart failure at significantly higher rates due to diabetes and hypertension. However, when statistical techniques excluded these risk factors, racial differences in heart failure rates disappeared.
Researchers found clevidipine to be more effective in controlling blood pressure compared to nitroglycerin and nicardipine. Measuring pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels can help diagnose cardiac versus pulmonary dyspnea.
A combination of aliskiren and valsartan showed improved blood pressure control compared to individual treatments or placebo. The dual renin system blocking drug combo reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure, achieving a goal blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg in 49.3% of patients.
Researchers found that lowering blood pressure with valsartan and other approaches improved diastolic function in patients with hypertension. The study, known as VALIDD, showed significant improvements in diastolic dysfunction, regardless of whether RAAS was inhibited or not.
New implantable device stimulates body's regulatory systems to control high blood pressure; computerized angioplasty protocol reduces risk of renarrowing and complications after coronary stenting.
Researchers found a potential biomarker for preeclampsia in elevated autoantibodies, associated with increased cardiovascular risk. The study suggests these autoantibodies may also be related to high blood pressure and inflammation.
A cross-sectional study of 460 Pakistani patients found that 77% were adherent to their medications, with social and family structures playing a key role in high adherence rates. Younger age, poor awareness, and symptomatic treatment negatively affected adherence, whereas mono-therapy and psychosocial factors showed no association.
A study by the University of Chicago Medical Center found that a specialized chiropractic adjustment can lower blood pressure significantly in individuals with a misaligned Atlas vertebra and high blood pressure. The results showed a decrease equal to taking two blood-pressure drugs at once, with no change in heart rate.
In response to criticisms of the Trial of Preventing Hypertension (TROPHY) study, investigators defend the work against claims of biased design. Experts argue over interpretation of data, including a change in hypertension definition and handling of home blood pressure measurements.
A study published in SLEEP finds that obstructive sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including systemic hypertension and heart failure. The study attributes this link to the physiologic effects of OSA on the body.
A national series of interventions aimed at improving chronic disease management quality resulted in enhanced processes of care for diabetes, asthma, and hypertension. However, these efforts did not lead to improvements in intermediate clinical outcomes, such as control of high blood pressure or glycated hemoglobin levels.
Two large studies found a significant association between common pain-relieving medications and an increased risk of hypertension (high blood pressure) in men. Men who regularly took acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin were more likely to develop high blood pressure over four years.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have found that C-Reactive Protein (CRP) directly induces hypertension in mice. The study, which manipulated CRP levels in mice with an engineered gene, showed a direct correlation between CRP and blood pressure elevation.
Researchers found that surgically removing the vagus nerve in mice prevented or reversed insulin resistance and high blood pressure. The study suggests altering vagal nerve activity could provide a novel treatment approach for diabetes and hypertension.
Researchers found a strong association between high blood pressure during pregnancy and increased coronary calcification later in life. Women who developed hypertension during pregnancy were at a 57% higher risk of cardiovascular disease, including type-2 diabetes and heart disease.
Researchers at University College London have discovered the structure and function of a crucial gene regulating blood pressure. The study reveals that loss of activity in this gene leads to reduced nitric oxide production, a key player in cardiovascular health.
Researchers at Erasmus University found that inhaling iloprost, a pulmonary arterial hypertension treatment, inhibits the Th2 cell inflammatory response in mice with allergic asthma. This study suggests targeting dendritic cells via iloprost may provide a new treatment for individuals with asthma.
Individuals with diagnosed hypertension in the US have lower blood pressure readings and better control compared to those in five Western European countries. The study found that treatment thresholds are more aggressive in the US, resulting in higher rates of hypertension control.
US physicians tend to start treatment sooner and are more aggressive in controlling blood pressure, with 63% of patients having their blood pressure under control. However, vast room for improvement exists, with less than two-thirds of patients reaching guideline-set goals.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found significant differences between antihypertensive drugs and their risk of new-onset diabetes. ACE-inhibitors and ARBs prevent diabetes, while diuretics and beta-blockers increase the risk. The study analyzed 22 long-term randomized clinical trials and included 143,153 patients.
A new study finds that tanshinone IIA, an active ingredient in the Chinese herb danshen, significantly reduces blood pressure in hamsters. The treatment also enhances expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and increases production of nitric oxide.
Researchers link young adults with hypertension or prehypertension to an increased risk of heart enlargement. The study found that those with hypertension had a three times higher prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy compared to those with normal blood pressure.
A long-term study found that men with hypertension who consumed one to two drinks a day had a decreased risk of fatal and non-fatal heart attacks. Rates of stroke and death from heart disease and all causes did not differ for hypertensive men who drank moderately or those who drank no alcohol.
A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that moderate alcohol consumption can reduce the risk of heart attacks among men with hypertension. The study analyzed data from nearly 12,000 men and showed that drinking one or two drinks per day does not increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.