December 19, 2011
Never too young to think about your blood
pressure
Changes in blood pressure during middle age can affect
someone’s risk of heart and circulatory disease, according to new
research.
The findings show people who maintain
or reduce their blood pressure to normal levels during
middle age have the lowest risk of heart disease or stroke, while
those with an increase have the highest risk.
Researchers say that someone’s age and
duration of blood pressure changes can therefore help
determine their risk of cardiovascular disease.
This study reinforces how important your heart health is whatever your age
Amy
Thompson, our Senior Cardiac Nurse, said: “This research
showed people who had already
developed high blood pressure
by the age of 55 had a higher
risk
of heart disease or stroke, compared to those who controlled
their blood pressure.
“Although high blood pressure is more common
in older people than in younger people, this study reinforces how
important your heart health is whatever your age. By keeping your
blood pressure in check you can help protect your
heart for the future.
“There are lots of things you can do to keep
your blood pressure under control – quitting
smoking, getting plenty of exercise
and reducing your salt intake can all
help.”
The research was published in Circulation, a Journal of
the American Heart Association.
