Fidelity to and utility of a home blood pressure self-monitoring regime in people with pre-hypertension: results from the REVERSE study.

INTRODUCTION: Around 40% of adults have pre-hypertension (120-139/80-89mmHg) increasing their risk of developing hypertension and associated cardiovascular conditions. Guidance on pre-hypertension management focuses on improving lifestyle. Self-monitoring may improve awareness and understanding of blood pressure (BP) for people with pre-hypertension, allowing them to modify their lifestyle risks. AIM: To determine the fidelity to and utility of a home BP self-monitoring regime in people with pre-hypertension. METHOD: This sub-study is part of a larger prospective, non-randomised feasibility study. Individuals with pre-hypertension were identified via GP records and pharmacy NHS Health Checks in Northwest England. Participants received training for home BP self-monitoring. They were asked to complete two readings (leaving a 5-minute interval) on the first three days of the month for six months, colour-code their readings and take action using a simple algorithm, then send them to the research team within 7 days. RESULTS: Eighty participants (aged 40-79, mean=59) enrolled. The majority were female (n=45, 56%), White British (n=79, 99%), and had not previously monitored their BP (n=55, 69%). Seventy-five (94%) participants completed the training. Sixty-one (81%) received online training and 14 (19%) opted for a face-to-face session. Sixty-one (81%) completed all six months of readings, 51 (68%) also returned them on time. All in-person training participants completed all six months of readings on time. Reasons for non-compliance to the protocol included battery issues, forgetting, and struggling to find a consistent time for readings. CONCLUSION: Home BP self-monitoring can be feasible and easily implementable for people with pre-hypertension - however, some barriers were identified.

The relationship between liver enzymes, prehypertension and hypertension in the Azar cohort population.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of hypertension (HTN) as a worldwide health problem is rising rapidly. Early identification and management of pre-HTN before HTN development can help reduce its related complications. We evaluated the relationship between liver enzymes levels and pre-HTN/HTN in the Azar cohort population. METHOD: This cross-sectional study was based on data from the large Azar cohort study and a total of 14,184 participants were included. Pre-HTN and HTN were defined based on the American Heart Association guideline. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels were measured by Pars Azmoon kits. The relationship between pre-HTN/HTN and liver enzyme levels was evaluated by logistic regression. RESULTS: Of 14,184 participants, 5.7% and 39.6% had pre-HTN and HTN, respectively. In the adjusted model, AST levels of 19-23 IU/l were associated with an elevated risk of pre-HTN (OR [95% CI]: 1.24 [1.04-1.48]). A dose-response increase was seen in pre-HTN in relation to ALT, with the highest OR in the third tertile (1.34 [1.09-1.63]). The odds of pre-HTN also increased with GGT in the third tertile (1.25[1.03-1.52]). In addition, the odds of HTN increased with increased levels of AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT, such that the highest ORs were recorded in the third tertile (OR 1.22 [1.09-1.37], 1.51 [1.35-1.70], 1.19 [1.07-1.34], and 1.68 [1.49-1.89], respectively). Among these enzymes, GGT had the highest OR regarding HTN. CONCLUSION: This study indicates that AST, ALT, ALP and GGT levels were associated with pre-HTN (except for ALP) and HTN, independent of known risk factors. Hence, it may be possible to use liver enzymes to predict the incidence of pre-HTN and HTN, empowering primary care providers to make the necessary interventions promptly.

Chinese Visceral Adiposity Index Predict Prehypertension Progression and Regression: A Prospective Cohort Study Involving Middle-Aged and Older Adults.

BACKGROUND: Limited data are published on the relationship of the Chinese visceral adiposity index (CVAI) with prehypertension progression or regression. Therefore, we investigated this association through the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. METHODS: Participants with prehypertension were assigned to two groups according to baseline CVAI, and after 4 years of follow-up, their blood pressure was analyzed for deterioration or improvement. We constructed logistic regression models for assessing the association of CVAI with the progression or regression of prehypertension. A restricted cubic spline (RCS) model was utilized for determining the dose-response association. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were also conducted. RESULTS: The study included 2,057 participants with prehypertension. During the follow-up, 695 participants progressed to hypertension, 561 participants regressed to normotension, and 801 participants remained as prehypertensive. An association was observed between a high CVAI value and a higher incidence of progression to hypertension and between a high CVAI value and a lower incidence of regression to normotension (OR = 1.66 and 0.58, 95% CI: 1.35-2.05 and 0.47-0.73, respectively). The RCS model exhibited a linear association between CVAI and prehypertension progression and regression (all P for non-linear > 0.05). The results of the subgroup and sensitivity analyses agreed with those of the primary analysis. CONCLUSIONS: A significant association was noted between CVAI and prehypertension progression and regression. Thus, as part of the hypertension prevention strategy, monitoring CVAI is crucial in individuals with prehypertension.

Effect of mindfulness-based interventions on people with prehypertension or hypertension: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Hypertension and prehypertension have been widely recognized as the main contributors of global mortality. Evidence shows mindfulness-based interventions may reduce blood pressure and improve mental health. However, the effect of mindfulness-based interventions on blood pressure and mental health has not been fully understood. METHODS: Potential studies published before May 24th 2023 were identified by searching Embase, Ovid Emcare, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane, PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang database, and VIP China Science. Additionally, two grey databases were searched: Mednar, WorldWideScience.org. The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment tool. The random-effects meta-analyses were conducted using Review Man 5.4 software and the key outcomes are presented as mean difference or standard mean difference and the 95% confidential interval. RESULTS: Searches returned 802 studies in total, of which 12 were included (N = 715). The duration of interventions was 8 weeks in 10 trials and 6 weeks in one trial. Pooled effect sizes indicated reductions in systolic blood pressure (MD = - 9.12, 95% CI [- 12.18, - 6.05], p < 0.001), diastolic blood pressure (MD = - 5.66, 95% CI [- 8.88, - 2.43], p < 0.001), anxiety (SMD = - 4.10; 95% CI [- 6.49, - 1.71], p < 0.001), depression (SMD = - 1.70, 95%CI [- 2.95, - 0.44], p < 0.001) and perceived stress (SMD = - 5.91, 95%CI [- 8.74, - 3.09], p < 0.001) at post-intervention. The findings from subgroup analyses are favorable for mindfulness-based interventions regardless of gender and baseline blood pressure with regard to BP reduction, with a more profound effect observed in participants with higher pre-intervention blood pressure. CONCLUSIONS: The results provide evidence for the positive role of mindfulness-based interventions in hypertension management. More large randomized control trials with sufficient statistical power and long-term follow-up are needed. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The protocol had been registered with Prospero on October 2nd 2021 (registration NO. CRD42021282504 ).

Reclassification of Adolescent Ambulatory Prehypertension and Unclassified Blood Pressures by 2022 American Heart Association Pediatric Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring Guidelines.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the epidemiology of reclassification of prehypertensive and unclassified adolescents by 2022 American Heart Association pediatric ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) guidelines, and to evaluate the association of the new diagnostic categories with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). STUDY DESIGN: A single-center, retrospective review of ABPM reports from adolescents 13-21 years old, from 2015 through 2022, was performed. Adolescents with prehypertension or unclassified by 2014 guidelines were reclassified by 2022 definitions. Logistic regression models evaluated the association of reclassification phenotypes with LVH. RESULTS: A majority of prehypertensive adolescents reclassified to hypertension (70%, n = 49/70). More than one-half (57%, n = 28/49) of the hypertension was isolated nocturnal hypertension, and 80% was systolic hypertension. Reclassification to hypertension was more common in males. The majority (55.6%) of unclassified adolescents were reclassified to normotension. No demographic or clinical variables were associated with reclassification categories. LVH was not associated with hypertension in the reclassified prehypertensive or unclassified groups. CONCLUSIONS: The 2022 ABPM guidelines clearly define blood pressure phenotypes. However, reclassification to hypertension was not associated with an increased odds of LVH. Because most prehypertensive adolescents reclassified as hypertensive by nighttime BPs alone, this study highlights the lowered threshold for nocturnal hypertension. Prospective studies in larger, well-defined cohorts are needed to describe better the predictive value of 2022 BP phenotypes for target organ damage.

Association of TyG index with prehypertension or hypertension: a retrospective study in Japanese normoglycemia subjects.

Aim: The objective of our study was to investigate the potential association between the triglyceride and glucose (TyG) index and the occurrence of prehypertension or hypertension in a cohort of normoglycemic Japanese subjects. Methods: The NAGALA physical examination program was conducted in 1994 at Murakami Memorial Hospital in Gifu City, Japan. For our retrospective study, we selected 15,450 participants who had taken part in this program. Our aim was to explore the potential link between the TyG index, a surrogate marker for insulin resistance, and the presence of prehypertension (pre-HTN) or hypertension (HTN). Our analysis included adjustments for clinical demographic attributes and serum biomarkers. Logistic regression was employed to assess the relationship between the TyG index and the likelihood of pre-HTN or HTN. Results: A total of 15,450 study subjects were included in our analysis. Notably, the prevalence of both pre-HTN and HTN displayed an ascending trend with increasing quartiles of the TyG index. In our comprehensive multivariable logistic regression analysis, when evaluating TyG as a continuous variable, the adjusted odds ratio (OR) for pre-HTN was OR 1.31 [95% CI 1.11-1.56], while for HTN, it was OR 1.76 [95% CI 1.24-2.5] within the fully adjusted model (model 3). When TyG was stratified into quartiles within model 3, the adjusted ORs for pre-HTN were OR 1.16 [95% CI 1.02-1.31], OR 1.22 [95% CI 1.06-1.41], and OR 1.31 [95% CI 1.08-1.59], respectively, using quartile 1 as the reference. The adjusted ORs for HTN in quartiles 2, 3, and 4 were OR 1.22 [95% CI 0.89-1.66], OR 1.4 [95% CI 1.02-1.91], and OR 1.48 [95% CI 1.02-2.15], respectively, within the same model and analysis, with quartile 1 as the reference. Subgroup analysis indicated that the TyG index exhibited a significant positive correlation with the risk of hypertension or prehypertension, except in the subgroup aged ≥65 years. Conclusion: Our study highlights a robust correlation between the TyG index and the likelihood of pre-HTN or HTN in normoglycemic Japanese subjects. This underscores the potential clinical relevance of the TyG index in refining early hypertension management strategies. Nonetheless, the validation of these findings necessitates larger studies with extended follow-up periods.

Blood pressure levels within normotensive range are independently associated with increased risk of arterial stiffness in adults without hypertension or prehypertension.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: High blood pressure (BP) indices, including systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and pulse pressure (PP) predict cardiovascular diseases and mortality. However, the association of these BP indices with arterial stiffness (AS) in the normotensive population (BP < 120/80 mmHg) remains unclear. METHODS AND RESULTS: Study participants who underwent health checkups at a tertiary referred center were recruited between November 2018 to December 2019. 2129 participants were enrolled after excluding those aged <18 years old, with elevated BP, history of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and stroke, or with incomplete data. The brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) values were examined for evaluation of AS. Participants with higher blood pressure indices had significantly higher baPWV. Multiple linear regression revealed that all BP indices were positively associated with baPWV. According to the binary logistic regression analysis, participants in the higher SBP and MAP quartiles were significantly related to AS. The odds ratio (OR) for SBP Q2, Q3 and Q4 vs. Q1 were 6.06, 10.06 and 17.78 whereas the OR for MAP Q2, Q3 and Q4 vs. Q1 were: 5.07, 5.28 and 10.34. For DBP and PP, only participants belonging to the highest quartile were associated with AS(OR for DBP Q4 vs. Q1: 2.51; PP Q4 vs Q1: 1.94). CONCLUSIONS: BP indices were linearly related to the baPWV. Normotensive participants with higher quartiles of SBP, DBP, MAP, and PP, remained associated with increased AS. The SBP and MAP levels exhibited a more prominent relationship with AS.

Severity of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a risk factor for developing hypertension from prehypertension.

BACKGROUND: There is little published evidence about the role of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the progression from prehypertension to hypertension. This study was conducted to investigate the association of NAFLD and its severity with the risk of hypertension developing from prehypertension. METHODS: The study cohort comprised 25,433 participants from the Kailuan study with prehypertension at baseline; those with excessive alcohol consumption and other liver diseases were excluded. NAFLD was diagnosed by ultrasonography and stratified as mild, moderate, or severe. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression was used to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of incident hypertension according to the presence and 3 categories of severity of NAFLD. RESULTS: During a median of 12.6 years of follow-up, 10,638 participants progressed to hypertension from prehypertension. After adjusting for multiple risk factors, patients with prehypertension and NAFLD had a 15% higher risk of incident hypertension than those without NAFLD (HR = 1.15, 95% CI 1.10-1.21). Moreover, the severity of NAFLD was associated with the incidence of hypertension, which was higher in patients with more severe NAFLD (HR = 1.15 [95% CI 1.10-1.21] in the mild NAFLD group; HR = 1.15 [95% CI 1.07-1.24] in the moderate NAFLD group; and HR = 1.20 [95% CI 1.03-1.41] in the severe NAFLD group). Subgroup analysis indicated that age and baseline systolic blood pressure may modify this association. CONCLUSIONS: NAFLD is an independent risk factor for hypertension in patients with prehypertension. The risk of incident hypertension increases with the severity of NAFLD.

Association of adiposity indices with prehypertension among Chinese adults: A cross-sectional study.

The association of adiposity indices with prehypertension remains unclear in the Chinese non-hypertensive population. This study aimed to compare the association of adiposity indices, including waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio, body roundness index (BRI), a body shape index (ABSI), and conicity index (CI), and prehypertension in the Chinese population. We recruited 61 475 participants from a population-based screening project in Guangdong province, China. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to detect the association between the six adiposity indices and prehypertension. Receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the predictive values of adiposity indices to prehypertension. The individuals were divided into two categories by blood pressure (BP) levels: normotension (<120/80 mmHg) and prehypertension (120-139/80-89 mmHg). A total of 33 233 people had prehypertension, with a prevalence of 54.04% and 42% males. Both logistics regression models presented a positive association between each adiposity index and prehypertension (p < .05), except for ABSI. The body mass index (BMI) was slightly more correlated with prehypertension than any other index. The standardized ORs for the six indices were 1.392, 1.361, 1.406, 1.039, 1.372, and 1.151, respectively. Compared to other adiposity indices, the WC had a significantly higher area under the curve (AUC) for predicting prehypertension (AUC: .619, sensitivity: 57%, specificity: 60.6%). In conclusion, WC and BMI might be the best indicators for prehypertension. Increasing evidence supports avoiding obesity as a preferred primary prevention strategy for prehypertension while controlling other major hypertension risk factors.

Occupational Noise-Induced Pre-Hypertension and Determinant Factors Among Metal Manufacturing Workers in Gondar City Administration, Northwest Ethiopia.

Introduction: Cardiovascular disorders are one of the commonly recognized occupational diseases in the developed world. Individuals chronically exposed to noise at workplaces had a higher risk of developing elevated arterial blood pressure. There are limited studies in Ethiopia regarding this topic and thus this study determined the prevalence and determinant factors of occupational noise-induced pre-hypertension among metal manufacturing workers in Gondar city administration, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study design was carried out. In this study, 300 study participants were recruited by census sampling method. A sound level meter was used to measure the working area noise level. A semi-structured pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic and clinical data. Blood pressure was measured in a quiet room in the morning using a mercurial sphygmomanometer. Both bivariable and multi-variable binary logistic regressions were used to identify factors associated with noise-induced prehypertension. Adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was reported, and variables with p < 0.05 were considered as statistically associated factors with pre-hypertension. Results: The prevalence of noise-induced pre-hypertension was 27.7% (95% CI: 22.7-32.7). In multivariable logistic regression, working area noise level (AOR = 3.8, 95% CI: 6.8-8.9), 45-65 years' age (AOR = 9.8, 95% CI: 5.4-12.9), years of work experience ((6-10 years (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.98-5.90 and >10 years (AOR = 4.8, 95% CI: 7.8-9.75)), being a cigarette smoker (AOR = 3.6, 95% CI: 1.36-9.77), and alcohol consumption (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.06-1.04) were significantly associated with noise-induced prehypertension. Conclusion: Workers in metal manufactures who were exposed to noise levels >85 dB developed elevated blood pressure. The odds of having prehypertension were increased by years of work experience, advanced age, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Our findings recommended that the real-world preventive strategies should be taken to lower the risk of noise-induced pre-hypertension hastened by occupational noise exposure.

Severity of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a risk factor for developing hypertension from prehypertension / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

BACKGROUND@#There is little published evidence about the role of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the progression from prehypertension to hypertension. This study was conducted to investigate the association of NAFLD and its severity with the risk of hypertension developing from prehypertension.@*METHODS@#The study cohort comprised 25,433 participants from the Kailuan study with prehypertension at baseline; those with excessive alcohol consumption and other liver diseases were excluded. NAFLD was diagnosed by ultrasonography and stratified as mild, moderate, or severe. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression was used to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of incident hypertension according to the presence and 3 categories of severity of NAFLD.@*RESULTS@#During a median of 12.6 years of follow-up, 10,638 participants progressed to hypertension from prehypertension. After adjusting for multiple risk factors, patients with prehypertension and NAFLD had a 15% higher risk of incident hypertension than those without NAFLD (HR = 1.15, 95% CI 1.10-1.21). Moreover, the severity of NAFLD was associated with the incidence of hypertension, which was higher in patients with more severe NAFLD (HR = 1.15 [95% CI 1.10-1.21] in the mild NAFLD group; HR = 1.15 [95% CI 1.07-1.24] in the moderate NAFLD group; and HR = 1.20 [95% CI 1.03-1.41] in the severe NAFLD group). Subgroup analysis indicated that age and baseline systolic blood pressure may modify this association.@*CONCLUSIONS@#NAFLD is an independent risk factor for hypertension in patients with prehypertension. The risk of incident hypertension increases with the severity of NAFLD.

LONG-TERM BLOOD PRESSURE VARIABILITY IN STRENGTH AND ENDURANCE PROFESSIONAL ATHLETES WITH OFFICE PREHYPERTENSION OVER ANNUAL TRAINING MACROCYCLE.

Considering the high spreading of arterial hypertension (AH) in professional athletes involved in different types of physical activities, as well as the high probability of its development in individuals with high normal blood pressure (BP), we aimed at investigating the daily profile of BP during three periods of annual training summer macrocycle: the preparation, competitive and transition ones. The investigation included 30 athletes having levels of systolic BP ≥130 and <140; as well as diastolic BP ≥ 85 and <90 mmHg during a thorough office examination in the preparation phase, who were divided into two groups without changes on age, sex, the duration of the sporting career depending on the type of a performed physical activity - strength (Str) and endurance (End). The athletes underwent office BP measurements and home BP monitoring (over the course of 3-7 days (M=5.2 (0.9) days), medical consultations, anthropometric and clinical examinations on each phase of the macrocycle. Although symptoms of chronic stress and autonomic dysfunction were quite common in athletes with prehypertension, still the emergence of the detected symptoms didn't differ significantly between two groups under investigation. When comparing the average values of office and home BP, the differences between Str-group and End-group regarding all indicators during the competitive phase have been identified. In particular, the levels of home diastolic BP differ the most - in Str-group they amounted to 91.1 (5.5) mm Hg, whereas in Endgroup to 83.7 (5.9) mm Hg (р=0.002). Nevertheless, the average maximum home systolic BP in Str-group has exceeded the high normal limit and accounted for 142.5 (10.2) mm Hg, in End-group the same parameter was 133.1 (7.6) mm Hg (р=0.019). The spreading of hypertension during preparation, competitive and transition periods in the Str-group has consecutively accounted for 20%, 53.3% and 13.3%.; in End-group the BP has accounted for 6.7%, 13.3% and 6.7% respectively, herewith during the competitive phase that indicator in Str-group was much higher (р=0.02), and the relative risk of developing hypertension during the competitive phase equaled 4 (р=0.048). Therefore, the increase of AH frequency and the level of BP in athletes involved in strength exercises isn't supported by an increase of autonomic symptoms development in comparison to the athletes performing endurance exercises, i.e. the frequency of asymptomatic, masked cases has a tendency to rise. To detect hypertension in time, we suggest performing home BP monitoring for athletes with high normal blood pressure during the competitive period.

Chinese Visceral Adiposity Index Is More Closely Associated With Hypertension and Prehypertension Than Traditional Adiposity Indices in Chinese Population: Results From the REACTION Study.

Purpose: The optimal adiposity index that is strongly associated with hypertension or prehypertension remains inconclusive in Chinese population. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between Chinese visceral adiposity index (CVAI) and hypertension and prehypertension, as well as to compare the discriminative power of CVAI, visceral adiposity index (VAI), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist to height ratio (WHtR), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) with hypertension and prehypertension in Chinese general population. Patients and Methods: A total of 34732 participants from REACTION study were recruited. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to detect the association between adiposity indices (CVAI, VAI, BMI, WC, WHtR, WHR, LDL-C) and hypertension and prehypertension. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that compared with other obesity indices, CVAI remained significantly associated with hypertension and prehypertension (Hypertension: odds ratio (OR) 3.475, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.158-3.824, p<0.001 in total subjects; OR 2.762, 95% CI 2.369-3.221, p<0.001 in men; OR 3.935, 95% CI 3.465-4.469, p<0.001 in women, Prehypertension: OR 2.747, 95% CI 2.460-3.068, p<0.001 in total subjects; OR 2.605, 95% CI 2.176-3.119, p<0.001 in men; OR 2.854, 95% CI 2.465-3.304, p<0.001 in women).In a stratified analysis, CVAI was significantly associated with hypertension and prehypertension at any level of blood glucose, age or estimated glomerular filtration rate(eGFR). Conclusion: CVAI is significantly associated with hypertension and prehypertension. CVAI shows the superior discriminative ability for hypertension and prehypertension compared with VAI, BMI, WC, WHtR, WHR and LDL-C in Chinese general population.

Prevalence of hypertension and pre-hypertension in the Middle East region: a systematic review & meta-analysis.

Hypertension is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity globally. This study aimed to obtain an overall regional estimate of the prevalence of hypertension and pre-hypertension and present the disease pattern based on the age and time in the Middle East region. We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, Medline for articles on the prevalence of hypertension, pre-hypertension among countries of the Middle East region from 1999 to 2019. STATA-14 was used to analyze the data. Data were pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis model, and heterogeneity between studies was assessed using I2 test and subgroup analysis. A total of eighty-three studies with 479816 participants met the criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis process. The overall prevalence of hypertension and pre-hypertension in the Middle East region were 24.36% (95% CI: 19.06-31.14) and 28. 60% (95% CI: 24.19-33.80), respectively. An increasing trend in the prevalence of hypertension was observed with the increasing age. The prevalence of hypertension in the ≤ 49-year-old age group was 17.13% (95% CI: 13.79-21.27) and in people over 60 years was 61.24% (95% CI: 55.30-67.81) (P < 0.001). This pattern has been similar among both males and females. On the other hand, a decreasing trend in the prevalence of pre-hypertension was observed with the increasing age. The increasing trend in the prevalence of hypertension and decreasing trend in the prevalence of pre-hypertension with age are significant concerns in the Middle East region. Screening for the prevention and control of hypertension should prioritize public health programs.

Screening of hypertension, risks, knowledge/awareness in second-cycle schools in Ghana. A national cross-sectional study among students aged 12-22.

In Ghana, the management of hypertension in primary health care is a cost-effective way of addressing premature deaths from vascular disorders that include hypertension. There is little or no evidence of large-scale studies on the prevalence, risk, and knowledge/awareness of hypertension in students aged 12-22 years in Ghana. In a cross-sectional study, blood pressure, anthropometric indices, and knowledge/awareness assessment of students at second-cycle schools were recorded from 2018 to 2020 in three regions of Ghana. Multistage cluster sampling was used in selecting regions and the schools. Prevalence of prehypertension and hypertension was categorized by the Joint National Committee 7, where appropriate, chi-square, scatter plots, and correlations were used in showing associations. A total of 3165 students comprising 1776 (56.1%) females and 1389 (43.9%) males participated in this study within three regions of Ghana. The minimum age was 12 years and the maximum age was 22 years. The mean age was 17.21 with standard deviation (SD: 1.59) years. A 95% confidence interval was set for estimations and a P value < 0.05 was set as significant. The prevalence rate of overall hypertension was 19.91% and elevated (prehypertension) was 26.07%. Risk indicators such as weight, BMI, waist circumference, physical activity, and form of the diet were positively correlated with hypertension. Among Ghanaian students currently in second-cycle educational institutions, 19.91% were hypertensive and 26.07% were prehypertensive. This may indicate a probable high prevalence of hypertension in the future adult population if measures are not taken to curb the associated risks.

Baseline and change in serum uric acid predict the progression from prehypertension to hypertension: a prospective cohort study.

Evidence is lacking about the role of serum uric acid (SUA) in the progression from prehypertension to hypertension. Herein, we aimed to investigate the association of both baseline and dynamic change in SUA with the risk of hypertension developing from prehypertension. The study enrolled 11,488 participants with prehypertension during 2006-2010 from the Kailuan study. Change in SUA was assessed as % change of SUA from 2006 (baseline) to 2010. Participants were categorized into four groups by quartiles of baseline and change in SUA, separately. Multivariable logistic regressions were used to calculation the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). During a median follow-up of 7.06 years, 2716 (23.64%) participants developed hypertension from prehypertension. In the multivariable-adjusted model, the OR for hypertension comparing participants in the highest versus the lowest quartile of baseline SUA were 1.18 (95% CI, 1.02-1.36). Increased SUA over time was also associated with elevated risk of hypertension (OR in the highest quartile was 1.41 [95% CI, 1.23-1.62] versus the lowest quartile), especially in those with baseline SUA ≥ median (OR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.21-1.81). Moreover, the addition of SUA to a conventional risk model had an incremental effect on the predictive value for hypertension (integrated discrimination improvement 0.30%, P < 0.0001; category-free net reclassification improvement 12.36%, P < 0.0001). Both high initial SUA and increased SUA over time can independently predict the progression from prehypertension to hypertension. Strategies aiming at controlling SUA level in prehypertensive subjects may impede the onset of hypertension.

Prevalence and incidence of pre-hypertension and hypertension (awareness/control) in Iran: findings from Kerman coronary artery diseases risk factors study 2 (KERCADRS).

Hypertension (HTN) is an important cause of cardiovascular-related morbidity and mortality. The present study was conducted to investigate the prevalence and incidence rate of pre-HTN, diagnosed and undiagnosed HTN, as well as its control and associated factors in adult population in southeast Iran. In a randomized household survey, 9987 participants aged 15-80 years were recruited into the study. HTN was confirmed through examination or using antihypertensive drug(s). Pre-HTN and HTN were defined as 120-139/80-89 and ≥140/90 mmHg for systolic and diastolic BP, respectively. The prevalence of pre-HTN was 28.5%. The prevalence of HTN was 19.2% (13.9% diagnosed and 5.3% undiagnosed). HTN increased with age (from 4% in 15-24 to 67.8% in 75-80 years). Men had higher pre-HTN (35.6% vs. 23.4%) and undiagnosed HTN (7.5% vs. 3.8%) than women. Of those diagnosed, 46.5% had uncontrolled BP, in which, women had better conditions than men (45.6% vs. 47.4%). Obesity, positive family history of HTN, anxiety, and low physical activity were the most significant predictors of HTN. The prevalence of pre-HTN decreased but there was no change in the prevalence of HTN during the last 5 years. The 5-year incidence rate/100 person-years of pre-HTN and HTN was 6.6 and 3.7, respectively. Although there are some promising signs of reducing pre-HTN and slowing HTN rise, currently, almost one-fifth of the adult population suffers from HTN. Given the poor BP control in patients with diagnosed HTN, especially in men, alarms that more effective interventions and strategies are needed to reduce deleterious consequences of HTN.

Serum uric acid and risk of prehypertension: a dose-response meta-analysis of 17 observational studies of approximately 79 thousand participants.

BACKGROUND: Studies examining the association between levels of serum uric acid (SUA) and risk of prehypertension still remained controversial conclusions. Also, a quantitative assessment of the dose-response association between them has not been reported. We aimed to quantitatively evaluate risk of prehypertension with levels of SUA based on observational study. METHODS: We searched the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases up to December 3, 2019 for relevant studies. Pooled relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects models. The possible linear or non-linear SUA-prehypertension association was modelled by restricted cubic splines. RESULTS: We included 17 articles (17 studies) with a total of 79,358 participants and 34,591 cases of prehypertension. Compared with lowest levels of SUA, risk of prehypertension increased 46% (RR 1.46, 95% CI 1.28-1.66) for highest levels of SUA. For per 1 mg/dL increment in levels of SUA, risk of prehypertension increased by 12% (RR 1.12, 95% CI 1.08-1.17). Also, we found evidence of a linear SUA-prehypertension association (Pnon-linearity=.368). CONCLUSION: Elevated levels of SUA may be associated with increased risk of prehypertension. Present findings provide the evidence that lowering levels of SUA should be suggested in order to reduce the risk of prehypertension. More longitudinal and intervention studies are needed to clarify the optimal protective levels and whether reducing levels of SUA could prevent or control prehypertension and the progression of prehypertension to hypertension.

Hypertension and Pre-Hypertension among Children and Adolescents in Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a major cause of morbidity and mortality and has been found to track from childhood to adulthood with long term cardiovascular and renal complications. Hence early detection and control in children and adolescents is crucial. This study was conceived to add to the body of evidence on the blood pressure pattern; the prevalence of pre-hypertension and hypertension among primary and secondary school children in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. METHODS: A total of 1,117 children and adolescents aged 6-16 years were recruited into this study from 16 schools (10 primary and 6 secondary schools in Port Harcourt) using a stratified, multistage sampling technique. The average of three blood pressure measurements was taken by the auscultatory method using the standard technique. The weight and height of the subjects were measured using a weighing scale and stadiometer respectively and body mass index (BMI) for age and sex obtained. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25. RESULTS: The overall mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) of subjects was 98.6±9.8mmHg while the mean diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was 57.2±8.8mmHg. The females had a significantly higher SBP than males (p<0.01), there was however no significant gender difference in the DBP. The systolic and diastolic blood pressure of the subjects showed a gradual increase with age. Fifty-one (4.3%) subjects had prehypertension (elevated blood pressure) while 52(4.4%) had hypertension. Majority of the hypertensive patients (92.3%) had stage 1 hypertension while 7.7% had stage 2 hypertension. Hypertension was more prevalent in females than males (p<0.001) and overweight/obese children compared to the normal weight and underweight children (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of pre-hypertension and hypertension in children and adolescents is high with overweight and obesity being associated risk factors.

CONTEXTE: L'hypertension est une cause majeure de morbidité et de mortalité et s'est avérée se poursuivre de l'enfance à l'âge adulte avec des complications cardiovasculaires et rénales à long terme. Par conséquent, la détection et le contrôle précoces chez les enfants et les adolescents sont cruciaux. Cette étude a été conçue pour s'ajouter à l'ensemble des preuves sur le profil de la pression artérielle ; la prévalence de la pré hypertension et de l'hypertension chez les enfants des écoles primaires et secondaires à Port Harcourt, dans l'État de Rivers, au Nigéria. METHODES: Un total de 1 117 enfants et adolescents âgés de 6 à 16 ans ont été recrutés dans cette étude dans 16 écoles (10 écoles primaires et 6 écoles secondaires à Port Harcourt) en utilisant une technique d'échantillonnage stratifié à plusieurs degrés. La moyenne de trois mesures de la pression artérielle a été effectuée par la méthode auscultatoire en utilisant la technique standard. Le poids et la tailledes sujets ont été mesurés à l'aide d'une balance et d'un stadiomètre respectivement et l'indice de masse corporelle (IMC) pour l'âge et le sexe obtenu. Les données ont été analysées à l'aide de SPSS version 25. RESULTATS: La pression artérielle systolique moyenne globale (PAS) des sujets était de 98,6 ± 9,8 mmHg tandis que la pression artérielle diastolique moyenne (PAD) était de 57,2 ± 8,8 mmHg. Les femmes avaient une PAS significativement plus élevée que les hommes (p<0,01), il n'y avait cependant pas de différence significative entre les sexes dans la PAD. Les pressions artérielles systolique et diastolique des sujets montraient une augmentation progressive avec l'âge. Cinquante et un (4,3 %) sujets souffraient de préhypertension (pression artérielle élevée) tandis que 52 (4,4 %) souffraient d'hypertension. La majorité des patients hypertendus (92,3%) avaient une hypertension de stade 1 tandis que 7,7% avaient une hypertension de stade 2. L'hypertension était plus fréquente chez les femmes que chez les hommes (p<0,001) et les enfants en surpoids/obèses par rapport aux enfants de poids normal et d'insuffisance pondérale (p<0,001). CONCLUSION: La prévalence de la préhypertension et de l'hypertension chez les enfants et les adolescents est élevée, le surpoids et l'obésité étant des facteurs de risque associés. MOTS CLÉS: Hypertension, Pré-hypertension, Enfants, Adolescents, Port Harcourt.