A new study published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine suggests that high blood pressure in older age may not be as normal as previously believed, Medical News reports. The study followed over 1,700 participants for a period of 24 years and found that those with high blood pressure at age 50 had a 47% higher risk of cardiovascular disease later in life compared to those with normal blood pressure. The researchers also found that participants who had high blood pressure at age 60 had a 71% higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
The study challenges the notion that high blood pressure is an inevitable consequence of aging and highlights the importance of managing blood pressure throughout life. The findings suggest that early intervention and lifestyle modifications, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in older age.
According to lead author Dr. John Bisognano from the University of Rochester Medical Center, "This study underscores the importance of assessing blood pressure early in life and maintaining healthy levels throughout adulthood to prevent cardiovascular disease later in life."
