High blood pressure may be contagious among couples, according to a new study published in the journal Hypertension. There are numerous media reports about this study, including the CNN. The study found that when one partner had high blood pressure, the other partner was more likely to develop it as well.
Researchers analyzed data from over 5,000 couples. They found that the risk of developing high blood pressure increased by 35% if one partner had the condition. Also, the study revealed that the risk was higher among younger couples. The same valid for those who had been together for a shorter period of time. Shared lifestyle factors, such as diet and physical activity, may contribute to the transmission of high blood pressure between partners. It is important to monitor blood pressure not only of those with hypertension, but also of their spouses.
The American Heart Association recommends that adults have their blood pressure checked at least once every two years if their readings are normal (less than 120/80 mmHg). However, for individuals with a family history of hypertension or other risk factors, more frequent screenings may be necessary.
According to Dr. Xiang Gao, an associate professor at Pennsylvania State University:
“Couples should be aware of the potential impact of their partner’s blood pressure on their own health and take steps to manage and prevent hypertension.”
The prevalence of hypertension among adults in the United States varies significantly on numerous factors. These included age, sex, ethnicity, and marital status. A comprehensive study that analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2013 to 2018 provides insights into these variations.
Regarding marital status, the study presents sudden yet clear conclusions. Those never married have a lower prevalence of hypertension compared to those who are married and living with their partner. Specifically, the prevalence of hypertension among the married was 22.70%, while it was 39.12% for those married and living with a partner. Furthermore, separated showed a significantly higher prevalence, at 57.54%. The researchers adjusted these figures for age, sex, and ethnicity.
The study also revealed that age is a strong predictor of hypertension. The risk of hypertension increases significantly with age, with the prevalence being as high as 77.45% in individuals aged 75 and above. In terms of gender, males were found to have a slightly higher prevalence of hypertension (40.74%) compared to females (38.34%).
