Focus on Latest in Research: Blood Pressure Digest #29

RESEARCH

BMI: a flawed measure for blood pressure

The American Medical Association (AMA) has adopted a new policy on the Body Mass Index (BMI), citing its "significant limitations" and "historical harm" in clinical settings, according to CNN. The AMA notes that BMI doesn't differentiate between lean and fat body mass, and doesn't account for differences between racial and ethnic groups, sexes, and people at different ages. For instance, it doesn't account for where people carry fat, a clear marker of health risk, including high blood pressure.

Dr. Willa Hsueh, Director of the Diabetes and Metabolism Research Center at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center , said: "More important than BMI, in my opinion, is whether any individual patient has the metabolic syndrome."

Insomnia's silent threat: a stroke waiting to happen?

Insomnia could significantly increase the risk of stroke, particularly in individuals under 50, according to a study reported by Prevention. The research found that those under 50 with moderate to severe insomnia had nearly four times the risk of stroke compared to those without symptoms. Insomnia, characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep, is linked to increased blood pressure, a known risk factor for stroke.

Dr. Amit Sachdev, Director of the Division of Neuromuscular Medicine at Michigan State University , said: "Insomnia is related to increased blood pressure, which can increase the risk of stroke."

Hypertension prevention strategies identified

Lifestyle modifications can play a crucial role in preventing hypertension, according to Medical News Today. A healthy diet, regular physical activity, weight management, stress reduction, and cautious substance use are all key strategies. For instance, regular medium- to high-intensity physical activity can help lower blood pressure. Moreover, being overweight can increase a person's risk of developing hypertension, and losing weight can have a significant impact, especially for those who are overweight and have hypertension.

Post-Haj health check: a must for diabetics and hypertensives

Diabetics and people with with high blood pressure are advised to see a doctor after performing Haj, as per UAE doctors' recommendations reported by Zawya. The intense physical activity during Haj and dietary changes may lead to an increased risk of blood sugar imbalance and hypertension. For hypertensive pilgrims, regular blood pressure measurement, low-salt meals, and adequate water intake are recommended. After returning from the pilgrimage, a medical check-up is strongly advised.

Dr. Mohamed Maki Shalal, head of Emergency Department at Canadian Specialist Hospital in Dubai, said: "After returning safely from the pilgrimage, it is recommended for them to see a doctor."

Grief's silent toll: a heart under pressure

Grief can significantly impact physical health, including causing a rise in blood pressure, according to a study reported by Global Village Space. The study by the Emory University found that moments of intense sadness during grief recall interviews led to a noticeable increase in participants' blood pressure. This suggests that grief could be a risk factor for future heart problems. The researchers hope that understanding the physical impacts of grief can help bereaved individuals maintain their health during this high-risk period.

Dr. Roman Palitsky , the lead author of the study, and the Director of Research Projects for Emory Spiritual Health, said: "People’s blood pressure went up during this interview, suggesting that these moments of intense sadness have observable cardiovascular impacts."

Links between dehydration and blood pressure studied

A study by Novant Health has found a link between dehydration and blood pressure, as reported by WWAY. According to the study, drinking 2-to-3 quarts of water a day can help those experiencing irregular blood pressure readings. This is particularly important during the summer months when people are more likely to be outside and exerting themselves on hot days. While sports drinks can replenish the salt the body loses, water should be the main source of hydration.

Dr Frederick Meine, Novant Health Cardiologist, said: "It really is actually maybe even more important for people who are in good health because they’re more likely to be outside over-exerting or exerting themselves more on hot days."

MEDICATIONS

Blood pressure treatment patent claims deemed 'obvious’

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) has ruled that the claims of U.S. Patent Application 15/131,442, which covers a method of reducing high blood pressure, were obvious in view of the prior art, reports IP Watchdog. The patent application, filed by John Couvaras, proposed the administration of two known antihypertensive agents, a GABA-a agonist and an Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB). The CAFC agreed with the Patent Trial and Appeal Board's (PTAB) decision that the increased prostacyclin release was inherent in the administration of these agents.

Stopping blood pressure medications explained

For some people, lifestyle changes may allow them to reduce or even stop taking blood pressure medication, according to Health Central. However, the decision to stop blood pressure drugs is very individual and depends on several factors, including the patient's genetic risk, age, and whether they have any organ damage. It's important to note that stopping medication without consulting a doctor can lead to serious health risks, such as a hypertensive crisis.

Dr. Shaline D. Rao, Director of heart failure services at NYU Langone Health Hospital, Long Island in New York (LinkedIn: Shaline R. ) said: "For some people, their risk of higher blood pressure is genetic or persistent in a way that requires medication for life. But many people can reduce their pill burden or get off medications entirely with consistently maintained lifestyle changes."

INNOVATIONS

AI-powered app 'Together' revolutionizes blood pressure monitoring

Together, an app developed by Dr. Renee Dua and Nick Desai , uses generative AI to simplify healthcare tasks, especially for aging adults and those with chronic diseases, including hypertension, as reported by Japan Today. The app measures vitals such as heart rate, and respiratory rate using just a smartphone camera. This breakthrough in ease and usability allows users to track vitals without any additional devices, providing a valuable tool for those with chronic diseases and their caregivers.

Dr. Renee Dua , Together by Renee Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer, said: "Together makes otherwise cumbersome healthcare tasks magically easy, so people follow care plans and actually achieve better outcomes."

Apple Health expands to blood pressure monitoring

Apple Health is expanding its capabilities to include blood pressure monitoring, as reported by 9to5Mac. The Health app on iPhone can now integrate data from third-party blood pressure monitors, such as the Withings BPM Connect and the QardioArm Wireless Blood Pressure Monitor. These devices sync data to the iPhone via WiFi or Bluetooth, providing users with a convenient way to track their blood pressure. The goal is to make Apple Health a one-stop shop for all health-related data, making it easier for users to monitor their health.

Smart toilet seat: the future of blood pressure monitoring?

Researchers at UMass Chan Medical School are testing a smart toilet seat that could help patients with chronic diseases, including hypertension, better manage their health. The seat, made by Casana , has been cleared by the FDA to measure heart rate and oxygen saturation, with plans to pursue filings for systolic and diastolic blood pressure, according to UMass Chan. The study aims to identify disease-specific signals and predict upcoming healthcare usage, potentially shifting healthcare from a reactive to a proactive state.

Dr. Apurv Soni , Co-director of the Program in Digital Medicine at the UMass Chan Medical School , said: "The hypothesis behind the Heart Seat is, if you can measure blood pressure and some of the other heart-related variables, then you can approximate cardiac output that traditionally requires an echocardiogram to capture." 

LIFESTYLE

Anxiety and hypertension: a dangerous duo

Anxiety, the most common mental health issue in the United States, can contribute to high blood pressure, according to the Chicago Sun Times. While anxiety-induced blood pressure spikes are typically temporary, chronic anxiety can adversely affect baseline blood pressure. Lifestyle changes, including diet improvement, exercise, and stress management, can help manage both conditions. Supplements like magnesium, ashwagandha, and green tea may also be beneficial, but should not be the sole approach.

Dr. Eve Glazier MD MBA and Dr. Elizabeth Ko , UCLA Health Internists, commented: "With anxiety, it’s important to identify any triggers that lead to that feeling. This can then help you understand the cause so you can make appropriate changes."

Sound healing to soothe a hypertensive heart

Sound healing, a therapeutic approach using music and sound, could potentially lower blood pressure, according to a report by Study Finds. Tia Harris, a sound healer cited in the report, uses various instruments including wind chimes, Tibetan singing bowls, and bells to help her clients, who suffer from conditions like insomnia, anxiety, depression, and high blood pressure. Harris has seen improvements in her clients' health, including reduced blood pressure readings, after sound therapy sessions.

The editor's note: sound healing may contribute to lower readings, but it cannot be viewed as a substitute for medications and blood pressure lifestyle changes in food, sleep, stress, and exercise.

Men, don't wait till you're sick

Men often put off visits to the primary doctor until something is wrong, a habit that can have serious consequences, especially when it comes to chronic diseases like hypertension. According to L'Observateur, having an established relationship with a primary care doctor is crucial for early detection and management of high blood pressure. Regular screenings, including blood pressure checks at every visit, can help prevent chronic disease. Studies have shown that people who have a regular primary care doctor have better health outcomes and lower risk of hospitalizations.

Dr. Mehul Sheth, board-certified family medicine practitioner at Ochsner Health Center, said: "Taking charge of your health by developing healthy habits and visiting a primary care physician is important. Find someone you feel comfortable with. Keeping up with your wellness and routine visits helps ensure you are staying healthy."

Nearly half adult Americans suffer from hypertension

High blood pressure, often referred to as the "silent killer," can develop slowly and go undiagnosed for years, warns Gant News. Nearly half of American adults suffer from this condition, which is a significant risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and even death. Regular check-ups with a primary care provider are essential for early detection and management. Lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, can help maintain or lower high blood pressure levels.

Dr. Kara Kozloski , a family medicine physician with Penn Highlands Healthcare , said: "Eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active and not smoking are the best ways to keep your blood pressure at a healthy level."