A new University of Michigan Medicine study highlights the critical importance of early diagnosis and sustained control of high blood pressure to prevent stroke, particularly among Latino and African American populations. The research, published in JAMA Network Open, analyzed data from over 40,000 adults to examine the long-term effect of elevated systolic blood pressure on stroke risk.
The study found that individuals with systolic blood pressure 10 mm Hg higher than average had a 20% increased risk of overall stroke and ischemic stroke, and a 31% higher risk of intracerebral hemorrhage.
Notably, the research revealed significant racial and ethnic disparities in stroke risk. Latinos in the study showed a 281% higher risk of subarachnoid hemorrhage compared to white participants. Black participants had a 20% higher risk of ischemic stroke and a 67% higher risk of intracerebral hemorrhage than their white counterparts.
Dr. Deborah Levine, senior author and professor at the University of Michigan Medical School, emphasized, “Our results suggest that early diagnosis and sustained control of high blood pressure over the lifespan are critical to preventing stroke, especially in Black and Hispanic patients who are more likely to have uncontrolled hypertension than white patients.”
The researchers recommend home blood pressure monitoring as an accurate and cost-effective method for managing hypertension. Dr. Levine urged healthcare systems and providers to educate patients about home monitoring and called on insurers to cover the cost of home blood pressure monitors to optimize blood pressure control and reduce stroke risk.
This study underscores the importance of addressing racial and ethnic health disparities in hypertension management and stroke prevention, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and improved access to care for minority populations.
See “Long-Term High Blood Pressure Increases Stroke Risk in Latinos” (July 26, 2024)
