High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects millions of people around the world.
If it isn’t managed well, it can lead to dangerous health problems like heart disease, strokes, and kidney damage.
This is especially true for older adults, who are already at higher risk for these conditions. Finding the best and safest way to control blood pressure in older people is very important.
In the past, doctors usually aimed to keep the top number in a blood pressure reading (called systolic pressure) below 140 mmHg. But a new study now suggests that aiming lower—below 130 mmHg—might actually do a better job of protecting people aged 60 and older.
This study was published in the journal Cardiovascular Innovations and Applications. The researchers used a method called Bayesian network meta-analysis. This means they combined data from several past studies to get clearer and stronger results. They looked at six major clinical trials that involved older adults with high blood pressure.
The researchers compared how people did when their blood pressure was lowered to different target levels. They checked how many people had serious problems like heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, or died from any cause.
The results showed that people who lowered their blood pressure to under 130 mmHg were less likely to suffer from these serious health problems compared to those who stayed at or above 140 mmHg. There was also a slight reduction in the number of people who died, although the difference was not very large.
This research supports the idea that having stricter blood pressure control could help older adults stay healthier. But the researchers also said we still need more studies to make sure this approach works for everyone.
Not all patients respond to treatment the same way. That’s why doctors should always adjust blood pressure goals based on each person’s unique needs and health history.
Usually, treating high blood pressure includes taking medicine and making healthy changes in daily life. Doctors may give different kinds of drugs depending on what’s best for each patient. But there are also many things people can do themselves to improve their blood pressure.
For example, eating a heart-healthy diet is very helpful. This means eating less salt, more fruits and vegetables, choosing whole grains, and eating foods rich in potassium like bananas and sweet potatoes.
Exercise is also important. Activities like walking, biking, or swimming can help lower blood pressure naturally. Reducing stress through things like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation can also make a big difference.
Other helpful changes include quitting smoking, drinking less alcohol, and getting enough good sleep every night. Even small improvements in these areas can add up over time and support a healthier heart.
This new research gives doctors and older patients more information to help decide on the best treatment plan. Aiming for lower blood pressure might be a better way to prevent heart problems, but the decision should always be made together with a healthcare provider. What works well for one person may not be right for someone else.
The main goal is to reduce the risk of serious health problems and help people live longer, healthier lives.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about why checking blood pressure while lying down is very important and lowering top blood pressure number to less than 120 mm Hg effectively prevents heart disease.
For more about blood pressure, please read studies that turmeric and vitamin D may boost blood pressure control in type 2 diabetes and scientists find link between blood pressure drugs and bowel diseases.
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