Lowering blood pressure below 120 mm hg can prevent stroke

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Researchers at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio have found that intensive blood pressure treatment can strongly reduce the risk of stroke.

The study was a follow-up analysis of the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT).

It is a clinical trial that compared intensive systolic blood pressure control (target less than 120 mm Hg) with standard control (target less than 140 mm Hg).

The trial enrolled participants aged 50 and above with hypertension but without diabetes or a history of stroke.

The results of the study showed that lower systolic blood pressure to below 120 mm Hg helped preserve brain health more effectively than standard treatment goals.

Patients receiving intensive blood pressure treatment showed reduced white matter lesions in frontal and posterior deep white matter, and improved blood flow, indicating better overall brain health.

White matter lesions are changes that can be associated with Alzheimer’s disease, non–Alzheimer’s disease cognitive impairment, and advanced brain aging.

Intensive blood pressure treatment can slow down vascular brain injury, potentially contributing to the preservation of cognitive function in older adults, according to the team.

Further research is needed to determine the optimal blood pressure targets and treatment strategies for various population groups and to assess the potential side effects of intensive blood pressure treatment.

More about high blood pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can lead to serious health problems such as heart attacks, stroke, kidney disease, and vision loss.

It is a common condition that affects one in three adults in the US. Although it may not cause symptoms, it is a significant risk factor for serious health problems.

There are several lifestyle changes that people can make to prevent and manage high blood pressure.

These include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and reducing sodium intake in the diet.

A healthy diet can also help manage blood pressure. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is an example of a healthy diet that can lower blood pressure.

It is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources like fish, poultry, and beans. The diet also limits foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol, such as red meat and full-fat dairy products.

People with high blood pressure should also work with their healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is right for them. Treatment may include lifestyle changes and medication.

In conclusion, the study demonstrates the benefits of intensive blood pressure treatment in preserving brain health, reducing white matter lesions, and improving blood flow.

This research provides valuable insights into the prevention and management of hypertension and its related complications.

If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about unhealthy habits that could increase high blood pressure risk, and eating eggs in a healthy diet may reduce risks of diabetes, high blood pressure.

If you care about stroke, please read studies about a breakfast linked to better blood vessel health, and olive oil could help lower risks of heart disease and stroke.

The study was conducted by Tanweer Rashid et al and published in JAMA Network Open.

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