A new study from Mass General Brigham suggests that aiming for lower blood pressure numbers can protect the heart, even if it comes with some risks.
The findings were published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine.
Researchers looked at what happens when people try to lower their top blood pressure number (systolic blood pressure) to below 120, 130, or 140 mm Hg. They used data from major studies like SPRINT and NHANES to create a simulation that predicted health outcomes over a lifetime, such as heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure.
The results showed that aiming for below 120 mm Hg prevents more heart-related issues. Even when blood pressure readings were not perfectly accurate—as often happens in real life—the stricter goal still gave better heart protection.
The downside is that stricter blood pressure control can lead to more side effects from medications, such as dizziness, falls, kidney problems, and a slower heart rate. People also need more doctor visits and medications, making the treatment more expensive.
Still, the stricter blood pressure target was considered cost-effective, meaning the health benefits were worth the extra money. The study found that it cost about $42,000 for each quality-adjusted life year gained.
This study supports more aggressive blood pressure goals for people at high risk of heart disease. But stricter control isn’t right for everyone. Doctors and patients should work together to find the best plan.
“Our findings suggest the intensive <120 mm Hg target prevents more cardiovascular events and provides good value, and this holds true even when measurements aren’t perfect,” said lead author Dr. Karen Smith.
The study was funded by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about common blood pressure medication that may extend your healthy life span and common high blood pressure drug linked to sudden cardiac arrest.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies that timing matters when taking high blood pressure pills and 1 in 5 people with high blood pressure taking a drug worsen the disease.
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