Research on blood pressure and its control. Covers intensive control and dementia, cardiovascular benefits, wearable ICU monitoring, and self-measurement.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that lowering systolic blood pressure to less than 120 mmHg significantly reduced the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death in adults, especially those over 75. However, intensive treatment also increased the risk of hypotension, fainting, and acute kidney abnormalities.
Researchers found that short bursts of light physical activity, such as walking breaks or desk exercises, reduced systolic blood pressure by 10 and 12 points respectively. This study provides evidence for the benefits of breaking sedentary behavior in people with type 2 diabetes.
A new study suggests that lowering systolic blood pressure to 120 mmHg could benefit up to 16.8 million Americans, who meet specific eligibility criteria for intensive blood pressure management. The study found that this lower target could have a significant impact on reducing risk of heart failure, heart attack, and death.
A Mayo Clinic study found that consuming a single 16-ounce energy drink can significantly increase blood pressure and stress hormone responses, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular events. The study also showed increases in norepinephrine levels and systolic blood pressure after energy drink consumption.
A study of 25 healthy young adults found that drinking one energy drink increased blood pressure and norepinephrine levels, which could predispose otherwise healthy individuals to cardiovascular risk. The findings suggest that commercially available energy drinks may be a contributing factor to heart disease in young adults.
A recent study found that energy drink consumption significantly increases systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 6.2% and 6.8%, respectively, and elevates norepinephrine levels by 74% after a single can of the drink.
A survey found that only 27% of women can name a woman with heart disease, highlighting the disconnect between widespread cardiovascular disease and personal perceptions. Women are more likely to be concerned about heart health when they know another woman who has experienced it.
A new study found that moving from a low-walkability neighborhood to a high-walkability one significantly lowers the risk of high blood pressure. Researchers compared adults who made this move and found a 54% lower risk of developing hypertension.
The portfolio diet, which includes mixed nuts, soy protein, and viscous fiber, was found to reduce both cholesterol and blood pressure by an average of 2% compared to the DASH diet. This study adds to the existing evidence connecting diet with health outcomes.
Researchers warn that thiazide diuretics may cause low blood pressure in congestive heart failure patients, leading to dizziness and reduced blood flow to the brain and kidneys. The study suggests that these patients should exercise caution when taking thiazides or consider alternative medications.
A collaborative effort between pharmacists and physicians improved blood pressure control among a diverse group of patients. The study found that the intervention resulted in lower systolic and diastolic blood pressures and higher hypertension control rates, with costs mostly due to prescription drug expenses.
Only 27% of older patients with diabetes underwent medication deintensification due to very low hemoglobin A1c levels or blood pressure values. Treatment was deintensified in 16% of those with moderately low and 18.8% of those with very low blood pressure levels. The study suggests that medication deintensification is underutilized, pa...
Two new studies published in JAMA Internal Medicine suggest that doctors should work together with patients to de-intensify treatment for high blood pressure or diabetes in older people. In some cases, stopping or cutting back on medications can be safer than continuing treatment due to the risk of low blood pressure and sugar levels.
A new Northwestern Medicine study found that blood pressure medication can reduce cardiovascular disease risk, but it cannot undo all previous damage. Middle-aged adults with well-controlled hypertension on medication had a higher risk of end-organ damage compared to those without treatment.
A new study found that lowering systolic blood pressure to 120mmHg can reduce the risk of left ventricular hypertrophy by 39%, compared to the standard target of 140mmHg. This reduction in blood pressure was associated with a lower risk of heart failure, stroke, and sudden cardiac death.
A new study published in Diabetologia shows that taking blood pressure medications at bedtime halves the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in hypertensive patients. The research found a 57% decrease in risk with nighttime treatment compared to morning treatment.
A low-cost automated program of personalized mobile phone text messages supporting lifestyle change led to improvements in LDL-C levels, blood pressure, body mass index, and smoking status in patients with coronary heart disease. The intervention resulted in a lower percentage of smokers and increased physical activity among participants.
A new study shows that tracking blood pressure data with incentives can lead to lasting changes, with nearly half of participants decreasing their systolic blood pressure. Participants who achieved over 20 milestones showed an average drop in systolic and diastolic pressures, suggesting a potential long-term impact.
A multi-site landmark study found that targeting a blood pressure of 120 millimeters of mercury reduces cardiovascular disease morbidity and event rates. Adults 50 years and older also experienced reduced rates of heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and death compared to the target systolic pressure of 140 mm Hg.
Research suggests that frequent hits in football may activate the body's natural defense system, producing chronic inflammation that increases blood pressure. This study aims to understand the cause of hypertension in football players and develop preventive strategies.
Research found higher levels of inflammatory markers in young adults living in polluted cities, indicating a greater risk of heart attack. Long-term air pollution exposure was linked to increased levels of CRP, hsCRP, homocysteine, and fibrinogen.
Research found that depressed patients with high or low blood pressure had the highest risk of major vascular events, including stroke or heart attack, at four years. The study included 35,537 patients and showed that depressive symptoms interacted with blood pressure to predict these outcomes.
Research found that midday naps are associated with reduced blood pressure levels and prescription of fewer antihypertensive medications in hypertensive patients. Midday sleepers had lower average 24 hour ambulatory systolic BP readings, indicating a potential reduction in cardiovascular risk.
A new study from UEA reveals that high protein intake from plant-based sources is associated with lower blood pressure, while animal-derived amino acids are linked to reduced arterial stiffness. Increasing protein-rich food consumption could be a valuable way to reduce cardiovascular disease risk.
Scientists developed a novel treatment strategy for patients with severe intolerance to antihypertensive medication, involving fractional dosing and alternative formulations. Blood pressure was significantly reduced among patients after just six months on the new approach, without debilitating side effects.
A handheld device called MouthLab tracks vital signs such as blood pressure, breathing rate, and heart rate by analyzing data from a mouthpiece and thumb pad sensor. The device has shown promising results in studies, with its measurements matching those taken with standard hospital monitors.
A randomized clinical trial found that discontinuing antihypertensive therapy in patients 75 and older with mild cognitive deficits did not improve short-term cognitive or general daily functioning. The study suggests that continuing antihypertensive therapy may be the best option for these patients.
A UCI study found that acupuncture treatments significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressures in hypertensive patients. The treatment also lowered levels of norepinephrine and renin, which constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure.
Researchers found small clusters of cells with genetic mutations that can lead to primary aldosteronism, a form of hypertension. The study suggests most people have these origins of the condition already, and further research could improve diagnosis and treatment.
A new study published in The FASEB Journal suggests that nutritional deficiencies can lead to chronic inflammation, which may be the underlying cause of weight gain. Participants who consumed nutrient bars daily for two months showed significant improvements in various health markers, including weight loss and improved cholesterol levels.
A Japanese study of over 4,000 people found that those consuming the most salt had a higher risk of developing high blood pressure. Participants who gradually increased their sodium intake also showed gradual increases in blood pressure.
A systematic evidence review published in Annals of Internal Medicine finds that the way a placebo is delivered affects how patients respond to therapy. The study suggests that some placebos have stronger effects than others, potentially impacting the effectiveness of medical treatments.
A recent study published in The Journal of Experimental Biology found that boa constrictors rapidly shut down the circulation of their victims. The snakes cut off the blood supply to vital organs, causing cardiac arrest and death within seconds. This discovery sheds new light on the mechanisms of snake constriction.
Researchers found that many older Americans with diabetes are not meeting clinical targets for blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels. Despite using less stringent guidelines, the study revealed significant racial disparities in diabetes control, particularly among women.
Researchers found that high blood pressure at a younger age can affect cognitive performance many years later. Participants with high blood pressure scored more poorly on tests of attention and executive function, highlighting the importance of managing factors that impact brain aging.
A recent study found that approximately 1 in 6 aging individuals would be reclassified as having 'at goal' blood pressure under the new guidelines, despite frequent use of antihypertensive medications. The study suggests that less stringent blood pressure goals may increase the risk for heart attacks and strokes among older adults.
A study of 2,500 young adults found that even mild elevations in blood pressure can lead to subclinical heart damage by middle age. Persistent high blood pressure is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, but the new study suggests that 'high-normal' pressure may also be a concern.
Researchers followed 2,479 young adults for 25 years and found that those with elevated but normal-range blood pressure were more likely to experience cardiac dysfunction. Young adults can reduce the risk by managing high blood pressure through diet, exercise, and medication.
A study published in the Journal of the American Pharmacists Association found that having pharmacists on primary care teams improved the treatment of blood pressure in patients with Type 2 diabetes. The addition of pharmacists led to substantial improvements in patient health, including a significant impact on blood pressure control.
A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a DASH-style diet with lean, unprocessed pork as the primary protein source reduced blood pressure and had similar effects when chicken or fish was used instead. The study included 19 participants with elevated high blood pressure and demonstrated the versat...
Astrocytes play a crucial role in maintaining healthy vascular tone by releasing signals to dilate or constrict blood vessels as needed. This basal control helps regulate blood flow and prevent damage from excessive pressure or calcium levels.
A study published in Medical Care found that higher numbers of unique doctors on staff and increased patient appointments were associated with lower rates of blood pressure normalization. The researchers suggest that busier practices may lead to compromised care due to reduced time and attention for patients.
Researchers have developed wearable E-skin and paper diagnostic machines that provide real-time health data, empowering patients to take control of their health. The low-cost devices can detect vital signs, track disease progression, and even diagnose infections.
A new mechanism for regulating blood pressure has been uncovered, involving the stress-sensitive gatekeeper protein ERp44. When ERp44 is released from cells, it accelerates the removal of angiotensin II from circulation, leading to a dramatic drop in blood pressure.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that adolescent girls who consumed 2,400 mg or more of potassium per day had lower blood pressures at the end of adolescence. In contrast, higher sodium intakes were not linked to increased blood pressure in this age group.
Using a sophisticated X-ray analysis, scientists revealed the molecular structure of the angiotensin receptor AT1R, an important regulator of blood pressure in humans. This discovery provides new insights into the mode of action and facilitates the development of new drugs with fewer side effects.
Michigan State University researchers are investigating whether belly fat hormones cause high blood pressure by communicating with blood vessels in the abdomen. Visceral fat, a harmful type of fat that surrounds organs and blood vessels, is believed to play a key role in this process.
A systems-wide genetic study of blood pressure regulation in the Framingham Heart Study identified four groups of genes linked to blood pressure that warranted further study. The researchers validated one key driver gene, Sh2b3, which plays a causal role in dysregulation of blood pressure in humans.
A new study published in the Journal of Gerontology: Psychological Sciences found that mortality and blood pressure are directly linked to relationship quality. The research revealed that wives' stress has significant implications for husbands' blood pressure, particularly in negative relationships.
A series of University of Utah studies found that hostile-dominant personality styles are associated with increased vulnerability to cardiovascular disease, including higher blood pressure and severe atherosclerosis. In contrast, warm-dominant styles are linked to lower blood pressure and more support in marriages.
A recent survey of 236 cardiologists found significant gaps in their knowledge about heart-healthy diets, with only 13.5% feeling adequately trained to discuss nutrition with patients. Dark chocolate was also shown to have health benefits in sedentary older adults, improving energy levels and exercise stamina.
Studies link energy drink consumption to increased resting blood pressure, while smoking is associated with a higher risk of fractured stents in limb arteries. Social habits also play a role in recovery from early-onset heart attacks in low-income urban communities.
Researchers found significant increases in blood pressure during nighttime hours among participants exposed to prolonged periods of shortened sleep. The study, conducted at Mayo Clinic, used a controlled protocol to mimic the effects of sleep loss on the body.
A study by Mayo Clinic researchers found that energy drinks increase resting blood pressure, particularly in caffeine-naive individuals, doubling their blood pressure compared to a placebo.
Excess dietary sodium can adversely affect target organs even in absence of blood pressure increase, including reduced function of endothelium, increased arterial stiffness, and kidney damage. Reducing sodium intake can help mitigate these effects.
Research found that individuals with lower fitness levels had smaller brain tissue volumes and poorer cognitive function later in life. Regular physical exercise may help slow down brain aging by reducing blood pressure fluctuations and vascular damage.
Reversing international normalized ratio (INR) below 1.3 within 4 hours and maintaining systolic blood pressure less than 160 mm Hg at 4 hours were associated with lower rates of hematoma enlargement. Resuming anticoagulant therapy was linked to a lower risk of ischemic events without increased bleeding complications.
Hydrogen sulfide has been found to widen blood vessels in healthy young adults, which could lead to decreased blood pressure. The researchers plan to investigate further by examining the effects of hydrogen sulfide on hypertensive individuals and high blood pressure treatments.
Higher levels of HMGB1, a 'danger' molecule fueling inflammation and blood pressure, may contribute to male hypertension. A new study suggests targeting HMGB1 could help prevent T cell activation and lower blood pressure.
A new study found that lowering systolic blood pressure to below 140 mm Hg significantly reduces the risk of stroke in people over 60, with especially high risks for Hispanics and blacks. The study also highlights the importance of targeting this group with specific treatment guidelines.