Research on blood pressure and its control. Covers intensive control and dementia, cardiovascular benefits, wearable ICU monitoring, and self-measurement.
A genetic study of over 160,000 adults in China found that moderate drinking has no protective effects against stroke and may even increase the risk. Blood pressure also rises with increased alcohol consumption.
A new study found that controlling high blood pressure in mid-life patients with atrial fibrillation can reduce dementia risk by up to 15%. The study analyzed data from over 196,000 patients and found that lowering systolic blood pressure to 120-129 mmHg was associated with lower dementia risk.
A new study found that keeping blood pressure around 130 mm Hg for three years significantly reduced the accumulation of harmful brain lesions compared to maintaining a higher systolic blood pressure. This reduction also led to fewer major cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes.
A large randomized controlled trial found that two frontline two-drug combinations including amlodipine significantly reduced blood pressure levels more than a third combination without amlodipine. The study, conducted in sub-Saharan Africa, showed that nearly half of adults have high blood pressure, often receiving ineffective treatment.
A one-off operation targeting kidney nerves successfully maintains reduced blood pressure in hypertension patients, with fewer medication requirements. The procedure, known as renal denervation, was found to be effective in controlling blood pressure without long-term safety concerns.
Researchers found that lower blood pressure is associated with increased risk of death in adults over 80, and those who've had a heart attack or stroke. This study's results suggest adjusting antihypertensive treatment based on individual needs, moving away from blanket approaches.
A large US study finds moderate drinking substantially raises one's risk of hypertension, contradicting previous studies. The research suggests that heavy and moderate drinking both increase blood pressure.
A study found that napping during the day can significantly lower blood pressure levels, with an average drop of 5 mm Hg. This reduction is comparable to other known interventions for lowering blood pressure.
A pilot study found that remote blood pressure monitoring via smartphone app, accompanied by education and health coaching, can significantly improve blood pressure control. Participants who had the highest blood pressure at baseline showed the most reductions in both systolic and diastolic pressure.
Researchers found that young women with a family history of hypertension have decreased baroreflex sensitivity, which can be a marker for hypertension and heart disease. This study suggests that these women may be at increased risk for developing high blood pressure later in life.
The updated guideline recommends using electronic oscillometric devices for accurate office blood pressure measurement, reducing human errors associated with the auscultatory approach. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring is also recommended to screen for white coat and masked hypertension in clinical practice.
Researchers developed soft, flexible wireless sensors to monitor premature babies in the NICU. These sensors allow physical bonding between baby and parent while providing clinical-grade measurements, replacing traditional wire-based sensors that pose a barrier to skin-to-skin contact.
A new study published in Neurology has found that medications commonly used to lower blood pressure and cholesterol do not slow down cognitive decline in older adults. The study, which involved over 1,600 participants, suggests that longer studies are needed to determine the effects of these medications on brain health.
A recent clinical trial found that pregnant mothers who consumed daily 600 milligrams of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) had offspring with protected blood pressure levels despite excessive weight gain during early childhood. The study demonstrated a significant reduction in blood pressure increases associated with obesity.
Research finds that combining morning exercise with frequent breaks from sitting throughout the day significantly reduces systolic blood pressure in older overweight men and women. Women experience an enhanced benefit from this combination, which may be attributed to hormonal changes after menopause.
A new study found that eating 200g of blueberries daily for a month improves blood vessel function and reduces systolic blood pressure in healthy people. Anthocyanins, a type of phytochemical responsible for blueberry's color, play a key role in this effect.
Researchers found that black women are more likely to be readmitted to hospital and suffer severe maternal morbidity, even after adjusting for socioeconomic factors. Text-based monitoring of blood pressure reduced racial disparities in ascertainment.
A randomized-controlled clinical trial found that Montmorency tart cherry juice helped lower systolic blood pressure and LDL cholesterol in older adults by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress biomarkers. The participants also showed increased DNA repair activity, suggesting potential health benefits for heart health.
Researchers found that intensive blood pressure lowering reduces the risk of bleeding in the brain after 'clot-busting' treatments for acute ischaemic stroke, making thrombolysis safer. However, this didn't translate to improved overall outcomes for patients.
A large international clinical trial found that intensive blood pressure lowering safely reduces the risk of brain bleeding in ischemic stroke patients being treated with clot-busting drugs, but did not improve post-stroke recovery. The study also showed no harm identified for intensive blood pressure management.
A multicenter trial found that administering a nitroglycerin patch in an ambulance did not reduce post-stroke disability. In fact, it worsened outcomes for patients with brain bleeds, indicating that the treatment should not be used very early after stroke.
A recent study by Rutgers University found that African-Americans are 5 times more likely to develop hypertensive emergency, a life-threatening condition. Targeted interventions to control diabetes, chronic heart and kidney disease, and anemia may reduce the risk of drastic increases in blood pressure.
Researchers found that stroke survivors who believe they can protect themselves from having another stroke have significantly lower blood pressure. The study revealed nearly 78% of adults agreed they could protect themselves, leading to a 6.44 mm Hg reduction in systolic blood pressure.
A systematic review of available evidence suggests that cycling and treadmill workstations are associated with greater short-term physiological changes compared to standing versions. Both types boosted heart rate, energy expenditure, and reduced blood pressure. However, treadmill versions interfered with keyboarding skills.
The SPRINT MIND trial found that intensive lowering of systolic blood pressure did not significantly reduce dementia risk, but had a measurable impact on mild cognitive impairment. The study demonstrated that intensive blood pressure control is safe for the brain and may offer avenues for prevention.
A clinical trial led by Wake Forest School of Medicine found that intensive control of blood pressure significantly reduced the risk of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in older people. MCI is a precursor to early dementia and increases the risk of dementia progression, but reversion to normal cognition is possible.
A team of researchers has discovered genetic associations with blood pressure that could guide future treatments for patients with hypertension. Over 250 new genetic variants and 400 new genes associated with blood pressure were identified, suggesting existing drugs may be used to lower blood pressure.
A study found that people with blood pressure above normal were more likely to have loss of volume in the gray matter in certain areas of the brain than those with normal blood pressure. High blood pressure was linked to reduced gray matter volumes, particularly in the left inferior frontal gyrus.
A new study published in Psychophysiology found that thinking about one's romantic partner can lower blood pressure during stressful situations, just as effectively as having the partner physically present. The study suggests that high-quality romantic relationships may support people's health by enabling better stress coping mechanisms.
A pilot study at Brigham and Women's Hospital found that an innovative home-based care-delivery program helped 81% of participants achieve blood pressure control in seven weeks. The program used Bluetooth-enabled blood pressure devices and patient navigators to facilitate rapid assessment and medication adjustments.
A recent study published in the International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health found no association between exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy and an increase in blood pressure. In fact, higher exposure to phthalates, BPA, and parabens was linked to a decrease in blood pressure, particularly in the second trimester.
A recent study found that high-fat diets significantly increase blood pressure in both young male and female rats, with comparable effects on males and females. The study also showed sex differences in inflammation response, where females maintained a higher percentage of Tregs, which help decrease blood pressure.
A study led by Albeir Mousa found that patients using a telemedicine app scored better on measures of physical function, mental health, and quality-of-life assessments. The vast majority of patients found the app intuitive to use, with high scores on ease of use and enrichment of care.
A new study in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that nearly 20% of cardiovascular disease deaths in Shandong province could be attributed to high sodium intake. Reducing salt consumption is estimated to prevent up to 8,800 deaths from cardiovascular disease.
A study of 39,742 people found that exercise was just as effective as most blood pressure lowering drugs in reducing systolic blood pressure, especially for those with high blood pressure. Combining endurance and dynamic resistance training also showed promising results.
A 12-month follow-up study found significant improvements in blood pressure among African-American men participating in a barbershop-based health program. The intervention reduced systolic blood pressure by 28.6 mm Hg, with an average reduction of 20.8 mm Hg greater than the control group.
A recent study by the Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai shows that a pharmacist-led intervention at barbershops can significantly lower blood pressure in high-risk African-American men. After 12 months, the average systolic blood pressure fell by nearly 29mmHg in the intervention group.
Researchers found that females have a higher risk of salt-sensitive hypertension due to impaired blood vessel relaxation. A low-salt diet and drug treatment restored healthier blood pressure and endothelial function in female mice.
Researchers found that maintaining systolic blood pressure at around 140 mmHg experienced fewer negative health outcomes, such as second strokes, death or cardiovascular disease. The findings provide some clarity for physicians, but more research is needed to confirm the optimal level of blood pressure.
Scientists identified a key player in blood pressure regulation, PKD2 channel, which regulates blood vessel constriction and relaxation. The study found that switching off PKD2 reduces blood pressure in mice, indicating potential as a new drug target for treating high blood pressure.
A recent editorial suggests that home blood pressure monitoring is more accurate than traditional office assessments, due to the phenomenon of white coat syndrome. This can lead to misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment for patients with high blood pressure.
Researchers have found that pulse oximeters can detect normal, elevated, and high blood pressure with high accuracy. The studies, conducted in the US and China, used large sample sizes and a unique mathematical program to identify electrical signatures that correlated with hypertension.
A new study predicts achieving and maintaining lower blood pressure goals could prevent 3.3 million cardiovascular disease events, while earlier guidelines may only prevent 1.6 million, according to a recent analysis using population-based databases.
Researchers studied two remote communities in the Venezuelan rainforest, one heavily Westernized and one less so, to investigate the relationship between age and blood pressure. The results suggest that the rise in blood pressure with age may be a consequence of Western lifestyle influences.
A South American tribe living in near-total isolation shows no increase in average blood pressure from age one to age 60, contrasting with a nearby tribe exposed to Western dietary influences. The findings support the idea that exposure to Western diet and lifestyle may contribute to age-related blood pressure rise.
Researchers found that using low-cost portable air purifiers at home significantly lowered urban seniors' fine particulate matter exposure and blood pressure. The study showed a 40% reduction in air pollutant exposure and an average of 3.4 mm Hg decrease in systolic blood pressure.
Exposure to whole-body blue light significantly reduces systolic blood pressure by almost 8 mmHg, similar to blood pressure lowering drugs. Blue light also improves other cardiovascular risk markers such as arterial stiffness and increased blood vessel relaxation.
A new study by Duke University Medical Center reveals that people under 40 with high blood pressure are at increased risk of heart failure, strokes, and blood vessel blockages as they age. The study used the 2017 guidelines to assess risks for younger individuals.
Two new studies link high blood pressure to premature cardiovascular disease in adults younger than 40, emphasizing the need for better understanding of its causes and prevention strategies. Experts suggest that lifestyle measures such as regular physical exercise and weight management can help maintain optimal blood pressure levels.
Research found that rising violent crime rates were associated with higher odds of high blood pressure among residents living in low-crime communities, even if they weren't directly exposed to crime. The study suggests that the environment affects heart health and stress responses can vary between neighborhoods.
A new study suggests that mindfulness-based interventions like yoga and tai chi can lower blood pressure, improve diabetics' health, and boost antioxidants. These practices may help reduce stroke risk by mitigating key factors such as hypertension, fatty acids, and blood sugar levels.
Researchers found that blood pressure and heart rate patterns in sedentary women are highly reproducible over three months, demonstrating allostasis. This suggests that the body adapts to changing demands, rather than maintaining a setpoint.
A new Scripps Research study reveals how specialized neurons detect changes in blood pressure and maintain cardiovascular homeostasis. The researchers identified two proteins, PIEZO1 and PIEZO2, that play a crucial role in the baroreceptor reflex, which has significant implications for treating drug-resistant hypertension.
A new study by the American Heart Association confirms that home blood pressure monitoring can diagnose high blood pressure in US adults. The research found that readings of 130/80 mmHg or higher taken at home are consistent with clinic measurements, providing a reliable method for identifying hypertension.
A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that cocoa flavanols, especially (−)-epicatechin, improve blood vessel function and lower blood pressure. Flavanol-only groups experienced all benefits, while procyanidin-enriched extracts showed reduced cholesterol without improvements in vascular effects.
A study of over 10,000 participants with type 2 diabetes found that intensive blood sugar control and targeting low blood pressure reduced the risk of macroalbuminuria, but had no impact on more significant kidney outcomes. The use of fenofibrate to lower cholesterol increased the risk for doubling of serum creatinine.
A study demonstrates that pulse wave velocity shows promise as a measurement to monitor blood pressure levels. Continuous, cuffless and non-invasive monitoring using wearable patches could provide an inexpensive option for patients with high blood pressure.
Researchers found that aggressive blood pressure treatment does not damage the kidneys themselves, but rather leads to decreased blood flow. This discovery challenges previous beliefs and offers new hope for patients with hypertension.
University of Toledo scientists discover that increasing body's supply of beta hydroxybutyrate can regulate high blood pressure without exercise or sodium reduction. The study used lab rats and found significant decrease in blood pressure through kidney repair.
Researchers have developed an analytical model linking blood pressure to pulse wave velocity, validated by human participant experiments. This method could enable future development of continuous blood pressure monitoring systems.