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A study led by Michigan Medicine, published in JAMA Network Open, has highlighted the cumulative effects of high systolic blood pressure on stroke risk.
The research analyzed data from over 40,000 adults with no history of stroke, focusing on the average systolic blood pressure years before the first stroke occurrence. The study examined three types of stroke: ischemic, intracerebral hemorrhage, and subarachnoid hemorrhage. Findings revealed that a 10-mm Hg increase in mean systolic blood pressure was associated with a 20 percent higher risk of overall stroke and ischemic stroke and a 31 percent greater risk of intracerebral hemorrhage.
The study also uncovered significant racial disparities in stroke risk. Black patients had a 20 percent higher risk of ischemic stroke and a 67 percent higher risk of intracerebral hemorrhage compared to white patients. Hispanic patients faced a 281 percent higher risk of subarachnoid hemorrhage but did not show increased risk for other stroke types.
Despite these disparities, the study found little evidence that race and ethnicity influenced the relationship between cumulative systolic blood pressure and stroke type. The researchers emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and sustained control of high blood pressure, particularly in Black and Hispanic populations who are more likely to have uncontrolled hypertension.
The study underscores the need for improved blood pressure management to prevent strokes and other cardiovascular diseases. Self-monitoring of blood pressure is an effective yet underutilized tool due to barriers, such as lack of patient education and insurance coverage for home monitors. The researchers advocate for healthcare systems to educate patients on home blood pressure monitoring and for insurers to cover the costs of these monitors to enhance blood pressure control and reduce stroke risk.
Read the full article here.