New way to measure blood pressure offers hope for HTN patients

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'Significantly less medication was needed to achieve healthy blood pressure levels when treatment decisions were based on central blood pressure,' said Associate Professor James Sharman.
'Significantly less medication was needed to achieve healthy blood pressure levels when treatment decisions were based on central blood pressure,' said Associate Professor James Sharman.

A world-first study by the University of Tasmania's (UTAS) Menzies Research Institute Tasmania has discovered that a new method for assessing blood pressure can significantly improve the quality of care in people with high blood pressure.

The study was published online this week in the prestigious blood pressure journal by the American Heart Association, Hypertension.

High blood pressure (hypertension) affects around 30 per cent of Australian adults. It is one of the most common causes of cardiovascular disease which kills more Australians than any other disease.

The study used a new method to measure central blood pressure, instead of upper arm blood pressure, which is commonly used by doctors.

Associate Professor James Sharman said that central blood pressure is considered to be a more accurate indicator of the pressure the heart and other vital organs experience.

"This is the first time central blood pressure has been used to guide decisions on blood pressure treatment," he said.

"The main finding was that significantly less medication was needed to achieve healthy blood pressure levels when treatment decisions were based on central blood pressure.

"Sixteen per cent of the participants came off medication altogether.

"These are important findings because people taking these medications can experience unwanted side effects that impact on quality of life, but these adverse effects are less likely with lower doses."

"We are very excited by the results which provide the framework for a better way to care for people with high blood pressure."

Erika Wedd, from Hobart, has suffered from high blood pressure for several years. Before participating in the trial she was taking a high dose of medication to treat blood pressure but was experiencing unwanted side effects.

"I was on a high dose of drug and wasn't feeling well, but I'm much better now that I'm on the lower dose and my blood pressure is good," Wedd said.

"I'm very happy with the result and so is my doctor."

Funding bodies that support the BP research include the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia, UTAS and AtCor Medical Pty Ltd.

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