A group of researchers from the University of Gothenburg have recently concluded several studies exploring the link between high blood pressure and heart-related complications.
Their findings indicate that a considerable number of people with high blood pressure may require more extensive treatment to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and premature death.
Understanding Hypertension
High blood pressure, medically referred to as hypertension, is a major health concern globally. It’s the leading cause of preventable disease and death.
In Sweden, over a quarter of all adults suffer from hypertension, which significantly increases the risk of severe health conditions, including heart attacks and strokes.
Key Findings: Blood Pressure and Heart Risks
In one of their studies, the researchers focused on older hypertension patients without any previous history of heart attacks or strokes.
They examined the correlation between different blood pressure levels and the likelihood of these patients suffering from heart attacks or strokes.
Their findings revealed that patients with systolic blood pressure (the pressure in your blood vessels when your heart beats) below 130 mmHg had a 40% lower risk of heart attack or stroke compared to those with systolic blood pressure ranging between 130-139 mmHg.
Increased Risk of Hemorrhagic Stroke
Another study reinforced these findings, focusing on patients with atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat) who were on blood-thinning medications.
This study found that patients with a systolic blood pressure range of 140-179 mmHg had double the risk of hemorrhagic stroke (a stroke caused by bleeding in the brain) compared to patients with systolic blood pressure within 130-139 mmHg.
A Closer Look at Hypertension Control
In a third extensive study involving data from 259,753 patients, the researchers made an alarming discovery.
Nine out of ten patients either had poorly controlled blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, or were smokers.
The researchers concluded that a significant number of individuals in Sweden are at risk of heart attack, stroke, or premature death due to inadequately treated hypertension.
Towards Better Management of Hypertension
The research team suggests that most hypertension patients could decrease their risk of heart attack and stroke by lowering their blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
This could be achieved either through additional medications or lifestyle modifications.
The researchers emphasize the critical need to prioritize effective treatment and management of hypertension. This is a crucial step in preventing severe health risks and premature death.
The study, led by Johan-Emil Bager, was published in the journal Brain and Behavior among others.
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.
For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies that early time-restricted eating could help improve blood pressure, and results showing plant-based foods could benefit people with high blood pressure.
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