Research on blood pressure and its control. Covers intensive control and dementia, cardiovascular benefits, wearable ICU monitoring, and self-measurement.
Studies found that certain T cells in human blood can produce acetylcholine, regulating blood pressure and inflammation. Higher levels of these immune cells were associated with reduced risk of death in seriously ill patients.
High blood pressure in children is a significant health concern, potentially leading to cardiovascular problems in adulthood. The American Heart Association recommends monitoring blood pressure levels and implementing lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and weight management.
A review from UTHealth Houston identifies key benefits of telehealth in addressing health disparities among stroke survivors. The study suggests that telehealth can expand access to care and treatment while minimizing barriers related to digital literacy, physical limitations, and limited English proficiency.
Research highlights that intensive behavioral weight loss programs significantly reduce cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes risk factors, which persist for at least five years. Participants who lost weight through such programs had lower risk factors compared to those in less intensive or no weight loss programs.
High blood pressure damages specific brain regions, including the putamen and white matter areas, leading to cognitive decline and increased risk of dementia. The study uses a combination of MRI, genetic analyses, and observational data to identify these affected regions.
A new study suggests that positive experiences in close relationships are associated with lower stress, better coping, and lower systolic blood pressure reactivity. The findings also indicate that variability in negative relationship experiences can predict outcomes like stress and physiological functioning.
A new study found that eating walnuts may alter the mix of gut microbes in a way that increases the body's production of amino acid L-homoarginine, which has been linked to lower cardiovascular risk. Researchers also discovered higher levels of certain bacteria in the gut of participants on the walnut diet.
A clinical trial found that moderate salt restriction reduced blood pressure and depressive symptoms without adverse effects in patients with primary aldosteronism. The study suggests a feasible approach to improving care for these patients and may also benefit those with essential hypertension.
A study found that increased availability of fruit and vegetables results in lower levels of raised blood pressure nationwide. Many countries, particularly low-income nations, face limited access to fruits and vegetables, increasing the risk of higher blood pressure.
A team of UCF researchers is working on a new project to educate the next generation of nurses, nurse practitioners, and social workers to improve heart health in medically underserved communities. They are using high-fidelity simulation scenarios to foster inter- and intradisciplinary care.
A recent study published in JAMA demonstrates the effectiveness of a minimally invasive procedure called renal denervation (RDN) to treat uncontrolled hypertension. RDN uses ultrasound energy delivered through a small balloon to denervate the renal artery, reducing sympathetic nerve activity and decreasing blood pressure.
A remote hypertension program, operated by Mass General Brigham, successfully supported patients through the COVID-19 pandemic in achieving their blood pressure goals. Participants who enrolled during the pandemic reached and maintained their goal blood pressures an average of two months earlier than in the pre-pandemic period.
Research suggests that females are more prone to salt sensitivity, leading to higher blood pressure, particularly after menopause. Salt sensitivity affects about half of hypertension cases and is often linked to treatment-resistant hypertension.
A new study published in Hypertension journal found that irregular sleep patterns contribute to higher blood pressure among teens with extra belly weight. The research suggests that maintaining a regular sleep schedule may help protect adolescents from cardiovascular consequences of obesity.
A new study found that Black women of childbearing age are twice as likely to have uncontrolled high blood pressure as their white peers, increasing their risk of heart-related complications during pregnancy. Food insecurity was also a significant issue among Black and Hispanic women, with one in four experiencing food insecurity.
Researchers found that immune cells play a key role in hypertension, weakening blood vessel walls and damaging the blood-brain barrier. Inhibiting inflammatory messengers may be a new therapeutic target for treating hypertension.
A new study found that stroke patients experience a daily rhythm in cerebral blood flow regulation, with greater regulation during afternoon hours compared to morning and night times. This discovery may improve health outcomes by guiding daily activity and personal care during stroke recovery.
A study of over 350 patients with small vessel stroke found that the medications were well-tolerated and safe, suggesting potential benefits in improving patient outcomes. The results indicate that cilostazol and isosorbide mononitrate may help reduce recurrent stroke, cognitive impairment, and improve quality of life.
Researchers found no significant evidence of harm in lowering blood pressure targets after endovascular treatment, but trends suggested marginal benefit and potential worsening of long-term disability. Clinicians should consider auto-regulation of blood pressure unless above 180 mm Hg.
A study of London adolescents found long-term exposure to PM2.5 is associated with higher blood pressure, particularly in girls. Exposure to high levels of nitrogen dioxide was also linked to lower blood pressure in this group.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have designed a soft and breathable material that can be worn on the skin without causing discomfort. The material, made from liquid-metal elastomer composite, has integrated antibacterial and antiviral properties to prevent the formation of harmful pathogens.
A study of 3,284 London adolescents found associations between air pollutants and blood pressure. Higher nitrogen dioxide exposure was linked to lower systolic blood pressure in girls, while higher particulate matter 2.5 exposure was linked to higher systolic blood pressure in boys.
A new study by the University of Bristol has found that spironolactone can help preserve the glycocalyx layer on blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing damage from diabetes. This discovery could lead to more effective treatments for diabetic kidney disease without adverse side effects.
A study published in the journal Nutrients found that regular coffee consumption is associated with lower blood pressure levels, both peripheral and central. The researchers analyzed data from a sample of Italian adults and discovered that moderate coffee drinkers had significantly lower systolic and pulse pressures.
A recent study published in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine suggests that golf may be just as healthy or even healthier than Nordic walking for older adults. The research compared the acute effects of three aerobic exercises: an 18-hole round of golf, 6km of Nordic walking, and a 6km walk. The results showed that all three types of ...
A large-scale observational study from China demonstrates a strong link between ideal cardiovascular health and lower mortality rates. Individuals with higher scores on behavioral and medical factors had approximately a 50% lower risk of all-cause, CVD, and respiratory mortality compared to those with lower scores.
A new study suggests that intensive blood pressure treatment may slow the accumulation of toxins in the brain's perivascular spaces, a dynamic area involved in brain clearance. This finding is significant for understanding the relationship between high blood pressure and cognitive decline.
A 20-year study reveals that recent advances in surgical and clinical care have significantly reduced brain injuries in babies with congenital heart disease. Infants who received higher postoperative blood pressure had a 20% lower risk of brain injury compared to those in earlier stages.
Women who experience five major pregnancy complications face an increased risk of ischemic heart disease up to 46 years after delivery. The study found that all major adverse pregnancy outcomes should be recognized as lifelong risk factors for heart disease.
The UVA Health, Southwest Virginia Coalition is partnering to improve COVID-19 outcomes and chronic health conditions through innovative telehealth models. The consortium will bring together healthcare groups to develop a long-term blueprint for providing care in rural communities.
A new study found that most Americans incorrectly believe they know what constitutes normal/healthy blood pressure, yet are overly confident in their understanding of blood pressure readings. This false confidence may undermine intentions to seek care for stage 1 hypertension.
Muscle mass and blood pressure are key factors in maintaining healthy arteries, with higher muscle mass and lower blood pressure linked to reduced arterial stiffness. The study found that these associations remain significant even after accounting for age.
A study by Columbia University exercise physiologists found that taking a five-minute walking break every 30 minutes can significantly lower blood sugar and blood pressure, while also reducing fatigue and improving mood. This regimen provided the most benefits, with only one minute of walking per hour providing modest benefits.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School conducted a large clinical trial comparing two commonly prescribed generic drugs, chlorthalidone and hydrochlorothiazide. The study found that both medications were equally effective in preventing cardiovascular disease and non-cancer death, contradicting current clinical guidel...
A new study found that teenagers who reported feeling optimistic, happy, and loved had better cardiometabolic health outcomes in adulthood. Despite this, racial disparities remained apparent, with Black teens facing increased health risks due to structural racism.
A new study suggests that reformulating packaged foods in Australia to contain less sodium could save up to 1,700 lives per year. Implementing the World Health Organization's sodium targets may also reduce rates of cardiovascular disease and stomach cancer.
A quality improvement program implemented to reduce disparities in blood pressure control between Black and white patients resulted in improved outcomes. However, disparities were not eliminated, suggesting a need for further targeted interventions.
Researchers found that clonidine, a common blood pressure medication, can reduce the consolidation of traumatic memories in PTSD patients. By interacting with the adrenergic receptor axis, clonidine interferes with cofilin's ability to form mushroom-shaped dendritic spines, which are essential for memory formation. This suggests that c...
A new study found that drinking two or more cups of coffee daily may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease mortality among people with severe hypertension. In contrast, moderate green tea consumption did not show a significant association with increased risk, suggesting potential benefits of polyphenols in reducing mortality.
Recent studies investigate heat waves and cold exposure on the cardiovascular system, revealing physiological responses that can lead to cardiovascular problems. Mild heat waves cause an increase in core temperature, skin blood flow, and vascular resistance, while mild cold exposure causes a similar rise in blood pressure.
The 2017 American Academy of Pediatrics guideline shows higher levels of proteinuria in children with hypertensive range blood pressure. Clinicians should re-calculate BP percentiles using the new guidelines to accurately diagnose and treat hypertension in pediatric chronic kidney disease.
A large VA clinical trial found that chlorthalidone (CTD) was not superior to hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) for preventing cardiovascular disease or non-cancer death. The study enrolled over 13,500 Veterans with high blood pressure and showed no difference between the two drugs in terms of effectiveness.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement highlights the potential benefits and risks of complementary and alternative therapies for heart failure. The statement advises healthcare professionals to discuss CAM use with patients, monitor medication interactions, and consider pharmacists' consultations.
A pilot study found that incorporating yoga into a regular exercise routine reduces systolic blood pressure and resting heart rate, improving 10-year cardiovascular risk. Yoga was more effective than stretching exercises alone in reducing cardiovascular risk factors.
A study published in the Hypertension journal suggests that bromocriptine, a Parkinson's disease medication, may help prevent heart disease in youth with Type 1 diabetes. The research found that teens with Type 1 diabetes who took bromocriptine had lower blood pressure and less stiff arteries after one month of treatment.
A new study found that 1 in 10 women without pre-existing hypertension may develop it up to a year after childbirth, highlighting the need for extended blood pressure monitoring. Mothers at highest risk include those over 35, current or former smokers, and C-section deliveries.
Research published in General Psychiatry finds a significant causal relationship between diastolic blood pressure and neuroticism, while systolic blood pressure has no association. Controlling high diastolic blood pressure may help reduce neurotic behaviors, anxiety, and cardiovascular diseases.
A study of 2,400 women found nearly a quarter developed high blood pressure more than six weeks after delivery. The research suggests monitoring during this period could mitigate severe cardiovascular complications.
A Cedars-Sinai study found that a specific protein imbalance can predict the risk of developing severe preeclampsia. The blood test measures the ratio between two proteins involved in blood vessel development, which accurately predicted preterm preeclampsia with severe features over 90% of the time.
The Mass General Brigham remote healthcare delivery program lowered blood pressure and LDL-cholesterol significantly in a study of over 10,000 participants. The program provided convenient care from home using digital solutions, improving health outcomes for traditionally underserved populations.
A customized mindfulness program that incorporates skills like attention control and self-awareness has been shown to lead to lower systolic blood pressure measures in participants. The intervention, which also focuses on health behavior change, is promising as a novel way to improve blood pressure control.
Researchers found that two common diuretics, chlorthalidone and hydrochlorothiazide, had no difference in cardiovascular outcomes among study participants. However, those taking chlorthalidone showed a reduced risk of heart disease and death by an average of 27% among patients with a history of heart attack or stroke.
A new study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia found that telmisartan, a blood pressure medication, is associated with lower risk of Alzheimer's specifically in Black patients over 60. The study analyzed data from over 5 million patients and suggests that future clinical trials should prioritize minority populations to find or reinfor...
People with elevated blood pressure showed improvement after 12 weeks of a telehealth support program, with significant reductions in systolic blood pressure and increased self-reported physical activity. A dietitian-led intervention also showed greater reductions in systolic blood pressure while asleep and more weight loss.
During the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with hypertension took less frequent blood pressure measurements and reported higher readings. Blood pressure control worsened due to disruptions in healthcare access, including telemedicine and home monitoring.
Adults with hypertension experienced a small rise in blood pressure levels during the first eight months of the COVID-19 pandemic, while the number of measured readings decreased significantly. The study found that telemedicine and home monitoring may have contributed to better blood pressure control.
Researchers found that vaping and smoking e-cigarettes led to greater constriction of the brachial artery and worse heart rate variability, indicating activation of the sympathetic nervous system. Vaping was also associated with poorer performance on exercise stress testing compared to non-nicotine users.
Researchers found a significant increase in heart disease deaths among adults in the US during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study attributed this rise to factors such as lockdowns, lack of physical activity, increased smoking and alcohol use.
A recent study published at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2022 found that pod-based e-cigarette users experienced changes in blood vessel health comparable to traditional cigarette smokers. The research, which included 106 young adults without cardiovascular disease, measured vascular function, blood pressure, an...
The $2.4 million grant will provide direct training for new community health workers in Lubbock and throughout the state through registered apprenticeship programs and job placements. The program aims to increase access to healthcare and address public health needs for underserved communities.