Get Serious About Your Cardiovascular Health

“Small increases in BP, particularly nighttime BP levels, are associated with significant increases in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.”

In a study across 1,464 subjects, there was a 20% increased risk of cardiovascular mortality for every 5% deficiency in the expected dip in nighttime blood pressure.

Across 6,359 patients, “nighttime BP levels and a riser pattern were independently associated with total cardiovascular event rate, in particular for HF (heart failure).”

This study with 5,292 concluded that “nighttime blood pressure is the most potent predictor of outcome.”

In a pilot trial of 130 patients (since expanded to 5,000), 91% of patients who regularly measured home BP for use in biweekly medication titration were able to achieve control of their blood pressure in 7 weeks.

Bedtime administration of hypertension medication for those with nocturnal hypertension had demonstrably improved results in terms of hypertension control and reduced cardiovascular events.

Patients in a treatment program focused on home blood pressure monitoring achieved “greater BP reductions, superior BP control, and higher patient satisfaction” compared to patients under usual care.

This systematic review of 137 peer-reviewed studies concluded that more frequent home blood pressure monitoring “encourages patient-centered care, improves BP control and patient outcomes.”

“The reduction of sodium intake… and the DASH diet both lower blood pressure substantially, with greater effects in combination than singly.”

A review of clinical trial results across many different dietary approaches to prevention and control of hypertension.

This meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials concluded that non-transcendental meditation showed promising results for lowering both SBP and DBP, with transcendental meditation requiring further trials.

This meta-analysis concluded that “exercise is a cornerstone therapy for the prevention, treatment and control of hypertension.”