Research on blood pressure and its control. Covers intensive control and dementia, cardiovascular benefits, wearable ICU monitoring, and self-measurement.
A common version of the FGF21 gene is associated with lower total body fat despite increasing carbohydrate intake, according to a new study. The gene variant also redistributes fat to the upper body, where it may cause harm.
A recent study by Kamal Henderson et al found no association between high leadership capabilities and improved population blood pressure control. Despite this, the study highlights the need for more research due to limited patient-related factors and small sample size.
Researchers investigated barriers to advance care planning in prisons, finding profound patient mistrust and obstructive institutional policies. The study also explored the link between hypertension treatment and an increased risk of falls, suggesting that de-intensified blood pressure control may reduce recurrent falls.
A new study found that relaxation response training can help reduce blood pressure in hypertensive patients by altering gene expression. The study identified key genes linked to immune regulation, metabolism, and circadian rhythm as critical for blood pressure reduction.
A University of Delaware researcher is studying a naturally occurring dietary supplement, nicotinamide riboside (NR), to boost nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels and potentially treat age-related cardiovascular dysfunction. The study aims to improve physiological function in humans by reversing age-related declines in NAD+.
Researchers found that women with high diastolic blood pressure before conception were at an 18% higher risk of pregnancy loss. Lifestyle changes to control blood pressure may improve pregnancy outcomes, according to a new study published in Hypertension.
A new University of Colorado Boulder study found that consuming nicotinamide riboside (NR) daily improves blood pressure and arterial health, particularly in those with mild hypertension. The supplement mimics caloric restriction's key chemical pathways responsible for its health benefits.
Researchers discovered a simple bedside test that can diagnose neurodegenerative brain diseases, including Parkinson's and Lewy Body dementia. The test measures changes in blood pressure and heart rate after standing up, providing clues for healthcare providers to identify potential patients with synucleinopathies.
A new study found that regularly exceeding a systolic blood pressure of 120-125 mmHg could signal impending hypertension, regardless of age. Researchers analyzed data from 1,252 participants and found that blood pressure levels rose rapidly above this threshold, consistent with recently updated guidelines.
Researchers at University of Louisville have found that epidural stimulation can safely and effectively elevate blood pressure in individuals with severe spinal cord injury. The study, published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, included four research participants who experienced significant improvements in blood pressure regulation.
Researchers found that participants on the 5:2 diet cleared triglyceride from a meal more efficiently than those on daily calorie restriction, reducing an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The study also showed a greater reduction in systolic blood pressure in participants on the 5:2 diet.
A new UCLA-led study finds that the Great Recession was associated with increased blood pressure and glucose levels, particularly among older homeowners and those still in the workforce. The study analyzed data from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis and suggests that economic crises can have measurable effects on public health.
In a groundbreaking study, African-American men with high blood pressure showed significant improvements when aided by pharmacists and local barbers. Nearly two-thirds of participants achieved healthy blood pressure levels after six months, with systolic blood pressure dropping from 153 mmHg to 126 mmHg.
A new combination pill of three low-dose medications has been shown to significantly increase the number of patients reaching blood pressure targets compared to usual care. The 'Triple Pill' resulted in a 70% control rate at six months, with benefits seen straight away and maintained until six months.
A study presented at the American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Session found that African-American men who received frequent monitoring and medication management from a specially-trained pharmacist in their barbershop saw a marked drop in blood pressure, with systolic blood pressure dropping by an average of 21 mm Hg. The ...
A new study from the Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute found that alpha blockers and alpha 2 agonist medications increase blood pressure variability, associated with a higher risk of death. Researchers recommend using alternative medications that show a decrease in mortality risk.
A new app and hardware for smartphones measures blood pressure with accuracy rivaling arm-cuff devices, according to Michigan State University scientists. The technology uses a fingertip measurement point and includes a discovery of a more convenient measurement location.
A study by Victoria Claydon found that bowel care is the top concern for individuals with spinal cord injuries, followed by sexual function, bladder function, and pain. The research highlights the need for holistic solutions to address the complex bodily system impacts of spinal cord injury.
Researchers identified dozens of genetic variations affecting blood pressure by analyzing cigarette smoking behavior in a large cohort. The study confirms the role of known genes and identifies novel ones associated with blood pressure regulation, offering potential for individually targeted treatments.
Researchers found that patients with regularly monitored blood pressure at home had significantly lower blood pressure after 12 months compared to those managed in the clinic. The use of telemonitoring also showed promise for faster and more efficient blood pressure reduction.
High-altitude exposure affects cardiovascular systems differently for various individuals. Experts recommend maximum altitudes and caution when taking medications. Hiking can have a positive effect on disease progression and psychological well-being for those following guidelines.
A case study published in JAMA Neurology reports improved side effects for a man with a spinal cord injury after receiving an experimental electrical implant. The treatment, known as epidural stimulation, has shown positive changes in blood pressure control, bowel function, and energy levels.
A large-scale study of genetics and smoking habits sheds new light on the complexities of controlling blood pressure, identifying potential genes of interest for new treatments. The research found surprising links between blood pressure and genes related to addiction, metabolic problems, and kidney disease.
Researchers analyzed data from over 30 years of cardiopulmonary exercise testing and found that peak systolic blood pressure increases with age until 60, after which it plateaus. The study suggests lowering the threshold for exercise hypertension to identify younger adults at risk.
Researchers have identified activation of nitric oxide-dependent endothelial function as the key to losartan's anti-aortic root remodeling activities. This finding challenges traditional views on blood pressure control in Marfan syndrome treatment, suggesting a new approach focusing on endothelial function may be more beneficial.
Researchers found that near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) values correlate with vital signs and birth weight in critically ill babies. The study suggests that NIRS can provide a more complete picture of babies' health, particularly for those with abnormal brain scans.
Researchers found that combining medication to lower blood pressure with medication to lower cholesterol reduced first-time strokes by 44 percent. The study involved over 12,700 participants from 21 countries and showed that this combination is effective in reducing stroke risk for those at moderate risk for heart disease.
Obese adults with type 2 diabetes who underwent gastric bypass surgery showed improved blood sugar control, cholesterol management, and reduced blood pressure after five years. However, the improvement in achieving these targets diminished over time, suggesting that longer follow-up is needed to understand the persistent benefits of we...
A study by Cedars-Sinai researchers found no statistically significant impact of wearable biosensors on clinical outcomes such as weight, blood pressure, and body mass index. Despite early promise for certain conditions like obstructive pulmonary disease and Parkinson's disease, the devices' effectiveness remains unproven.
A new study by Kaiser Permanente found that nearly a quarter of children and teens screened for blood pressure showed elevated readings, but less than half were correctly classified. The research emphasizes the need for a second reading when the first result is high to accurately diagnose hypertension in pediatric care.
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University found that activity monitors have no impact on physical activity when used without a goal. However, tracking steps and moderate intensity activity with clear objectives can lead to significant increases in physical activity and improved heart health.
A 30-minute sauna bath lowers systolic and diastolic blood pressure and increases carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, indicating improved vascular compliance. This study builds on previous findings linking regular sauna bathing to reduced risk of coronary diseases, hypertension, and Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers found that team-based care with medication titration by a nonphysician clinician and physician leads to significant reductions in systolic blood pressure. Multilevel strategies without team-based care also show promise, reducing systolic blood pressure by 5 mm Hg.
Researchers found blood pressure declines were steepest in patients with dementia and heart failure, but also occurred without diagnoses. The study highlights the importance of reevaluating treatment for hypertension in older patients.
A study of over 400 adults with prehypertension found that combining a low-salt diet with the DASH diet substantially lowers systolic blood pressure, especially in those with higher baseline readings. The combination diet resulted in reductions of up to 21mmHg in systolic blood pressure, surpassing the effect of prescription drugs.
Research found that male triathletes are more likely to develop myocardial fibrosis, a scarring of the heart, due to excessive exercise. The study also showed that female triathletes were less prone to the condition.
The NUS microfibre sensor measures vital signs, heart rate, and blood pressure in real-time, offering convenience and comfort for patients. It can also detect plaque buildup in blood vessels, potentially preventing organ failure or heart attacks.
Researchers found that intensive treatment for gum disease significantly lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressure among participants. The study, presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2017, suggests that treating gum disease can be a potential method to manage high blood pressure.
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that intensive blood pressure lowering treatment does not reduce death or cardiovascular disease in healthy individuals with a systolic blood pressure below 140mmHg. Treatment's beneficial effect is limited to trials in people with coronary heart disease.
A combination of reduced sodium intake and the DASH diet has been shown to lower systolic blood pressure in adults with hypertension. The study followed 412 adults with varying levels of blood pressure and found that those on a low-sodium or DASH diet had lower blood pressure than those with high sodium consumption.
Researchers at Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute found that patients with extreme blood pressure swings were more likely to die than those with stable blood pressure. The study suggests that controlling blood pressure on a regular basis is crucial to reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
A recent study found that children with high blood pressure at night experienced a faster time to kidney failure than those with normal blood pressure. The study also showed that patients with high blood pressure during both day and night had an even more rapid decline, highlighting the importance of nighttime blood pressure control in...
Scientists found that skin helps regulate blood pressure and heart rate in response to changes in oxygen availability. In mice genetically modified to lack certain HIF proteins, the response to low-oxygen conditions was altered, affecting heart rate, blood pressure, and overall activity.
A study by Carnegie Mellon University found that a mindfulness meditation mobile app with an acceptance training component reduces cortisol and systolic blood pressure in response to stress. The app was shown to lower blood pressure responses by approximately 20% and cortisol responses by more than 50%.
The study aims to determine whether evening binge drinking causes sleep apnea, neural disregulation and abnormal rhythms in blood pressure. Researchers will also examine how menstrual phases affect women's bodies and explore the impact of CPAP on negative effects.
A study found that changes in marital relationship quality over time are associated with variations in cardiovascular risk factors for men. Improving relationships were linked to lower levels of 'bad' cholesterol and relatively lower weight, while deteriorating relationships were associated with worsening diastolic blood pressure.
A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that high blood pressure in women's 40s is associated with a 65% increased risk of dementia. Women who developed high blood pressure in their 40s were 73% more likely to develop dementia than those with stable blood pressure throughout their 30s and 40s.
Researchers discovered a mechanism by which gut bacteria contribute to hypertension, involving the breakdown of cortisol into a molecule called GALF. This process can lead to an increase in blood pressure. The study aims to develop targeted therapies to combat hypertension.
Men who batted in saunas 4-7 times a week had lower blood pressure levels than those who only batted once a week. This was attributed to vasodilation, improved endothelial function, and relaxation of the body and mind. Regular sauna bathing also reduced the risk of pulmonary diseases.
A community health worker-led multicomponent intervention improved systolic and diastolic blood pressure control in low-income patients with uncontrolled hypertension. Over 18 months, the intervention group showed a significant decrease in blood pressure and increased controlled hypertension rates compared to usual care.
Self-monitoring of blood pressure at home is associated with a significant reduction in clinic blood pressure, particularly when combined with individually tailored intensive support. The effect was strongest in people on fewer antihypertensive medications and those with higher systolic blood pressure before self-monitoring.
A study of 180 teenagers found evidence of organ damage in those with normal blood pressure and those in the mid-risk group. Researchers suggest that imaging of the heart may be useful to determine how aggressive therapy should be for youth in the high-normal range of blood pressure.
A new study found that adults with lower education levels and no partner are less likely to regularly check their blood pressure at home. This is associated with a higher frequency of home monitoring among those with high blood pressure who are aware of it and being treated.
Researchers found that stroke volume explains 55% of the variance in systolic blood pressure in females, while total peripheral resistance is the main determinant in males. This study suggests potential benefits to prescribing blood pressure-lowering medications with consideration for gender differences in underlying physiology.
New research reveals that maintaining a healthy weight is crucial in preventing high blood pressure, with participants who kept their weight in check being 41% less likely to develop increasing blood pressure. The study also found that focusing on weight management can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
A study published in Diabetologia found approximately 1.8 million US adults aged 40+ with diabetes, CKD, and diabetic retinopathy, indicating a significant risk of CKD progression and death. The presence of DR is a reliable screening tool for identifying individuals at high risk.
Researchers found that a simple index based on systolic blood pressure and left-ventricular end-diastolic blood pressure ratio can predict in-hospital mortality for patients with STEMI. The study included 219 patients and showed that the SBP/LVEDP ratio was more predictive than other indices.
New research shows that e-cigarettes with nicotine cause a significant increase in arterial stiffness, blood pressure, and heart rate in humans. This study highlights the potential dangers of e-cigarettes and emphasizes the need for caution and further investigation into their long-term effects.
A new study shows that untreated sleep apnea increases blood sugar, fat levels, stress hormones, and blood pressure while participants slept. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is recommended to prevent these consequences.
A study found that dark chocolate enriched with extra virgin olive oil is associated with increased endothelial progenitor cells and decreased carnitine levels, leading to improved cardiovascular health. The addition of natural polyphenols from olive oil also increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and decreased blood pressure.