Research on blood pressure and its control. Covers intensive control and dementia, cardiovascular benefits, wearable ICU monitoring, and self-measurement.
A church-based program combining faith-based lifestyle change with motivational interviewing significantly lowered systolic blood pressure by 5.8 mm Hg, compared to an educational program alone. The study found that the intervention was effective in improving blood pressure control and could be a routine practice in places of worship.
A culturally tailored program significantly reduced blood pressure among Hispanic individuals by nearly 40% one year after discharge, according to a new study published in JAMA Neurology. The program taught patients actionable skills to reduce their risk for stroke, rather than just knowledge.
A massive genetic analysis of over one million people has revealed 535 new genes linked to high blood pressure. The discovery sheds light on new biological pathways for blood pressure regulation and holds promise for improved cardiovascular disease prevention.
Engineers at UC San Diego developed an algorithm to predict individual blood pressure based on sleep, exercise, and blood pressure data from wearable devices. The study found that personalized data was more effective than generalized information in lowering blood pressure.
A new study found that extreme dieting in female rats led to a decrease in metabolic factors and functions, including body weight and blood pressure, but resulted in a higher accumulation of abdominal fat. This increase in belly fat may cause long-term health risks for people who have previously crash dieted.
Research suggests that high variability in weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar readings is associated with a higher risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death. Fluctuations in these measures are linked to an increased risk of 127% mortality, 43% heart attack, and 41% stroke.
Researchers found a combination of liraglutide and enalapril effectively addresses all symptoms of postmenopausal polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), including metabolic syndrome. The treatment promotes significant weight loss, reduces insulin resistance, and normalizes blood pressure.
Researchers at OHSU have discovered the three-dimensional structure of a membrane channel critical in controlling blood pressure. The breakthrough provides a starting point for developing better treatments for diseases associated with this channel, including severe hypertension and heart failure.
Research participants experienced improved blood pressure and heart rate regulation after receiving epidural stimulation, with stabilized levels even after stimulation was turned off. The therapy also increased independence and alertness, allowing individuals to live more normal lives and engage in activities without limitations.
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 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.
Researchers at the University of California - San Diego have developed a wearable ultrasound patch that can monitor central blood pressure in major arteries up to four centimeters below the skin. The device provides accurate, precise readings and has potential applications in real-time monitoring of patients with heart or lung disease.
Research suggests that early life stress can lead to increased levels of 'danger' molecules, which can overwhelm the body's natural system and cause chronic inflammation. This can ultimately result in a host of health problems, including cardiovascular disease.
New research reveals genetic differences in skeletal muscle receptors contribute to varying responses to exercise, increasing risk of future high blood pressure.
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 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 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.
Research suggests that people with deep forehead wrinkles, more than typical for their age, may have a higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. The study found that individuals with fewer wrinkles had lower risk compared to those with deeper wrinkles.
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 recent study has found that consuming more phosphate with food increases blood pressure and pulse rate in healthy young adults. The study, published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, suggests that increased phosphate intake can lead to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
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.
A new study of over 90,000 people in 18 countries found that sodium consumption is not associated with increased health risks for most communities, except those with very high salt intake above 5g/day. Communities with high average levels of sodium intake were mostly seen in China.
Researchers found that transplantation followed by antiviral therapy cured hepatitis C in all 20 patients who received kidneys from infected donors. The treatment resulted in excellent renal function and stable to improved quality of life.
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.
A new study published by the American Thoracic Society found that supplemental oxygen eliminated the rise in morning blood pressure experienced by OSA patients who stopped using CPAP. The study suggests that intermittent hypoxia is the dominant cause of daytime increase in blood pressure in OSA.
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.
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 study published in Neurology found that higher blood pressure in later life is associated with signs of brain aging and brain lesions, including infarcts and tangles linked to Alzheimer's disease. The risk of brain lesions increases by 46% for those with one standard deviation above the average systolic blood pressure.
Teenagers who participate in high-intensity exercise have lower blood pressure, which may lead to a reduced risk of developing heart disease later in life. The study found that post-exercise hypotension was more pronounced in vigorous intensity exercise than moderate intensity exercise.
A new study published in Vascular Medicine found that e-cigarette users experience significant cardiovascular elevation, comparable to cigarette smokers. The research revealed elevated blood pressure and heart rate after using e-cigarettes, with some effects lasting up to 45 minutes.
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 found that even mild sleep disturbances can lead to elevated blood pressure in women, with nearly three times more common than severe sleep disturbances. Women who slept for seven to nine hours a night were significantly more likely to have high blood pressure.
A study found that the blood pressure-lowering medication ramipril reduced protein excretion in children with chronic kidney disease, which was linked to a lower risk of disease progression. The findings suggest that proteinuria lowering is an important target in managing pediatric CKD.
Researchers found that participants who followed a 16:8 diet consumed fewer calories, lost weight, and had improvements in blood pressure. The study suggests that daily fasting is an effective tool for weight loss in obese adults.
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 new program has been shown to lower blood pressure in just 14 days, with participants seeing an average drop of 19 points. The Weimer Institute Newstart Lifestyle program aims to modify lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise to achieve this result.
A new study found that mango consumption lowered systolic blood pressure and reduced breath methane levels in healthy postmenopausal women. The researchers believe the polyphenols in mangos may be responsible for these favorable effects.
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 recent study published in Neurology found that black and Hispanic people are at higher risk of having another intracerebral hemorrhage, or bleeding stroke, compared to white people. The study, which analyzed data from over 2,200 patients, also found significant racial differences in blood pressure and its impact on stroke risk.
A 12-week randomized controlled trial found that Montmorency tart cherry juice reduced systolic blood pressure and LDL cholesterol in older adults, potentially helping to maintain heart health. The study suggests that the unique nutrient content of Montmorency tart cherries may contribute to these benefits.
New research suggests that regular exercise has a greater impact on blood vessels in middle-aged men compared to post-menopausal women. Arterial stiffness and blood pressure improved with brisk walking, but were higher in women after exercise.
A new meta-analysis finds that following the Portfolio Diet reduces LDL-cholesterol by 17% and lowers cardiovascular disease risk by 13%. The diet emphasizes a portfolio of four proven cholesterol-lowering foods: nuts, plant protein, viscous soluble fiber, and plant sterols.
A study led by Stanford researchers found that over 11 million Americans may be prescribed incorrect statins, aspirin, or blood pressure medications due to outdated data. The updated equations improve the accuracy of cardiovascular disease risk estimates.
Researchers found that Galectin-1 can lower blood pressure by reducing activity of L-type calcium channels in arteries. This discovery offers a novel approach to treating hypertension, potentially with minimal side effects.
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.
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 international study found that frequent sauna bathing is associated with a reduced risk of stroke. The study involved 1,628 men and women aged 53-74 years living in eastern Finland and showed a significant decrease in stroke risk with increasing frequency of sauna use.
A Finnish study of 1,628 people found that frequent sauna bathing may be associated with a lower risk of stroke. Those who took a sauna four to seven times a week were 60% less likely to have a stroke than those who took only one per week.
The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) Board of Governors approved over $20 million for studies using PCORnet to improve care for people with arthritis, blood pressure, depression, and irritable bowel disease. The four projects will foster relationships between researchers and stakeholder partners to support research ...
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.
A randomized clinical trial found that smartphone app use improved self-reported medication adherence, but not systolic blood pressure, among participants with poorly controlled high blood pressure. The study used the Medisafe app and lasted 12 weeks.
The new guidelines would classify an extra 31 million Americans as having hypertension, but experts say this could lead to increased anxiety and depression, as well as serious treatment side effects. Doctors should only treat patients with high cardiovascular disease risk using reliable calculators.