Changes In Blood Pressure Levels Research Articles

NURSING CARE FOR PATIENTS UNDERGOING HEART SURGERY

INTRODUCTION: Nursing care for patients undergoing heart surgery is extremely important, as it is possible to avoid risks, as well as the manifestation of various complications. With regard to cardiac surgeries, surgical interventions have the possibility of reducing mortality and thus improving the quality of life of patients, as it favors the development and improvement of assistance itself. OBJECTIVE: To identify nursing care for patients undergoing cardiac surgery in the literature. METHODOLOGY: this study is an integrative review of the literature, based on the following guiding question: what is the nursing care provided to patients undergoing cardiac surgery? Data collection took place between the months of January and February 2024 through the databases Scientific Electronic Library Online (SCIELO), Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences (LILACS), Nursing Databases (BDENF), making use of the descriptors in health sciences (DeCS): nursing, cardiac surgery and patient. For the inclusion criteria, the following were adopted: articles published between the years 2019 and 2023, articles available in Portuguese for free, which addressed the topic and which were available in full, duplicate articles were excluded, that is, those present in more of a database, incomplete articles, and those that deviated from the study proposal. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS: It is worth noting that the postoperative period of cardiac surgeries, a period during which the patient recovers from post-anesthetic and post-surgical stress, is marked by the destabilization of the patient’s clinical condition, and is therefore , full of specificities, and critical care. Therefore, the postoperative period of cardiac surgery requires continued attention, resoluteness, and highly complex care from the nursing team. Therefore, it is possible to minimize various complications, such as changes in blood pressure levels, as well as compensation of organic systems. CONCLUSION: It is concluded, therefore, that the assistance of the nursing team to patients undergoing cardiac surgery is essential, as it makes it possible to carry out a continuous investigation, as well as to determine human responses, as well as to elaborate possible nursing diagnoses.

Ability of a 24-h ambulatory cuffless blood pressure monitoring device to track blood pressure changes in clinical practice.

There is an increasing number of cuffless blood pressure (BP) measurement (BPM) devices. Despite promising results when comparing single measurements, the ability of these devices to track changes in BP levels over 24 h related to an initial calibration BP (CalibBP) is unknown. Our aim was to analyse this ability in a cuffless device using pulse transit time. We prospectively enrolled 166 participants for simultaneously performed cuffless (Somnotouch-NIBP) and cuff-based (Spacelabs 90217A/IEM Mobil-O-graph) 24 h BPM. As CalibBP for the cuffless device, first cuff-based BP was used. As surrogate for changes in BP levels after the CalibBP, we used the difference between the CalibBP and mean 24 h, awake and asleep BP measured by the two devices. In addition, we analysed the relationship between the difference of the CalibBP and the cuff-based BPM versus the difference between the cuff-based and the cuffless BPM devices. Mean(SD) difference between the CalibBP and mean 24hBP by the cuff-based or cuffless BP device were 7.4 (13.2) versus 1.8 (8.3) mmHg for systolic ( P  < 0.0001) and 6.6 (6.8) versus 1.6 (5.8) mmHg for diastolic ( P  < 0.0001). A near linear relationship was seen among the difference between the CalibBP and the cuff-based BPM values and the difference between the cuff-based and cuffless BPM device. Our data indicate a lower ability of the cuffless BPM device to track changes of BP levels after CalibBP. In addition, cuffless device accuracy was associated with the changes in BP levels after the initial CalibBP - the larger the BP level change, the larger the difference between the devices. https://www.clinicaltrials.gov ; Unique identifier: NCT03054688; NCT03975582.

Non-Invasive Blood Pressure Tracking of Spontaneous Hypertension Rats Using an Electronic Nose.

Traditional noninvasive blood pressure measurement methods in experimental animals are time consuming and difficult to operate, particularly for large numbers of animals. In this study, the possibility of sensing fecal odor to estimate the blood pressure status of spontaneous hypertension rats (SHRs) was explored with the aim of establishing a new method for non-invasive monitoring of blood pressure. The body weight and blood pressure of SHRs kept increasing with growth, and the odor information monitored using an E-nose varied with the blood pressure status, particularly for sensors S6 and S7. The fecal information was analyzed using principal component analysis, canonical discriminant analysis and multilayer perception neural networks (MLP) to discriminate SHRs from normal ones, with a 100% correct classification rate. For better prediction of blood pressure, the model built using multiple linear regression analysis, partial least squares regression analysis and multilayer perceptron neural network analysis were used, with coefficients of determination (R2) ranging from 0.8036 to 0.9926. Moreover, the best prediction model for blood pressure was established using MLP analysis with an R2&not; higher than 0.91. Thus, changes in blood pressure levels can be tracked non-invasively, and normotension can be distinguished from hypertension or even at different hypertension levels based on the odor information of rat feces, providing a foundation for non-invasive health monitoring. This work might provide potential instructions for functional food research aimed at lowering blood pressure.

Treatment and Clinical Study of Hypertensive Patients

Objective: This study aims to investigate the treatment and clinical effect of hypertensive patients, and to compare the differences between personalized treatment and conventional treatment. Methods: 100 hypertensive patients from August 2022 to April 2023 were randomly sampled and equally divided into observation and control groups. The control group received traditional conventional therapy, and the observation group received personalized treatment. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using SPSS22.0. Results: The observation group showed advantages in drug use, changes in blood pressure level, incidence of drug side effects, mood control and medication compliance. The medication effect in the observation group was significantly better than the control group, with a large reduction in blood pressure levels and a relatively low incidence of drug side effects. Emotional control rate and medication compliance were also higher in the observation group. Conclusion: Personalized treatment is important for hypertensive patients. Through the individualized treatment plan, the treatment effect and the quality of life of the patients can be effectively improved. Therefore, in the treatment of hypertension, the individual differences of patients should be fully considered, and personalized treatment plans should be developed to achieve better treatment results.

The Relationship of Kidney Functions in Regulating the Level of Fluids and Salts for Patients and Conducting Some Biochemical and Hormonal Variables

The study of paper is basic functions of the kidney in the body are many, the most important of which is what is represented in the role of the kidney and how to balance and maintain the normal proportions of fluids and salts necessary for the body and what this continuous effort of the kidneys is of utmost importance to maintain the normal pressure, so when the efficiency of the kidney decreases, it will need a higher pressure to subtract the amount of salts and water required Subtracting it, then, the blood pressure level changes to its normal level when the positive movement of the glomerular arteries changes. Renin is secreted by the kidneys and it has the main and effective role in maintaining normal blood pressure and its important role in most cases of high blood pressure, the resonance is secreted from specialized cells in the kidney as it leads to stimulation of the Angiotensinogen hormone that works to convert Angiotensin I to Angiotensin II and is the last of the strongest hormones It is effective in increasing the contraction of blood vessels and increasing its concentration in the blood above the normal level leads to high blood pressure because it has an effect on the contraction of the peripheral blood vessels, and the contraction of the blood vessels of the kidney reduces the process of reabsorption, which leads to the progression of hypertension. Also, the hormone angiotensin II stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce the hormone Aldosterone, which forms a fundamental role in the absorption of fluids and salts through the kidneys and are the three regulators (Resonance, angiotensin, aldosterone) The primary control for maintaining normal blood pressure.

Environmental exposure to paraben and its association with blood pressure: A cross-sectional study in China

Parabens (PBs) are the most widely used preservatives. Recent epidemiological studies have indicated that environmental exposure to parabens has adverse health effects, such as increased metabolic diseases risk. However, limited information is available on the cardiovascular effect of paraben exposure. Hence, we conducted a cross-sectional study investigating the associations between exposure to parabens with high blood pressure risk and blood pressure levels among the general Chinese population. In this study, we enrolled 1405 individuals from a medical center in Wuhan, China. Urinary methylparaben (MeP), ethylparaben (EtP), propylparaben (PrP) and butylparaben (BuP) concentrations were determined. Multivariable logistic and linear regression models were applied to analyze the associations between urinary parabens and high blood pressure risk and blood pressure level changes. Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models were applied to estimate the combined effect of the four parabens. Compared with the first quartile group, participants with the fourth quartile of EtP, PrP, and ∑parabens (∑PBs) concentrations had a 2.10-fold (95% CI: 1.40, 3.00), 1.83-fold (95% CI: 1.27, 2.62) and 1.84-fold (95% CI: 1.27, 2.65) increased the risk of hypertension, respectively. High urinary EtP, PrP, and ∑PBs levels were found to increase the levels of systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and mid-blood pressure (MBP). BKMR models indicated the overall effects of the paraben mixture were significantly associated with high blood pressure risk and blood pressure level changes. Furthermore, after stratification by sex, the associations of EtP exposure and blood pressure levels were more pronounced in males. Our results suggest that environmental exposure to parabens might elevate blood pressure levels and increase the risk of high blood pressure.

ABILITY OF A CUFFLESS 24 HOUR AMBULATORY BLOOD PRESSURE MEASUREMENT DEVICE TO TRACK BLOOD PRESSURE CHANGES COMPARED TO A CUFF-BASED DEVICE

Objective: There is an increasing number of cuffless blood pressure (BP) measurement devices on the market. Beneath the absence of generally accepted validation protocols for these devices, the ability of these devices to track changes in BP levels over 24h in relation to an initial calibration BP is unknown. Aim of this study was to analyse this ability in a cuffless 24h BP device using pulse transit time. Design and method: We prospectively enrolled 166 participants for simultaneously performed cuffless (TestBP, Somnotouch NIBP) and cuff-based (RefBP, Spacelabs 90217A or IEM Mobil-o-graph) 24h BD measurements. Main exclusion criteria were atrial fibrillation or an inter-arm difference of &gt;10 mmHg. TestBP calibration was based on initial RefBP measurement (CalibBP). As surrogate parameters for tracking individual changes in BP levels after the CalibBP, we used the difference between CalibBP and mean 24h, awake and asleep BP measured by RefBP and TestBP. Additionally, we analysed the relationship between the difference of CalibBP and RefBP vs the difference between RefBP and TestBP. Results: Mean (±SD) age was 51.2 (15.1) years and 53% were male. Mean (±SD) difference between CalibBP and mean 24h BP by RefBP / TestBP were 7.4 (13.2) versus 1.8 (8.3) mmHg for systolic (p &lt; 0.0001) and 6.6 (6.8) versus 1.6 (5.8) mmHg for diastolic (p &lt; 0.0001). Corresponding ranges for CalibBP-RefBP were -35 – 55 mmHg vs. -14 – 34 for CalibBP-Test BP. Figure 1 shows a near linear relationship between the difference between CalibBP and RefBP and the difference between RefBP and TestBP for systolic and diastolic BP values. Red line indicates the theoretical situation that TestBP follows CalibBP without tracking changes in BP levels, green line an ideal agreement of RefBP and TestBP. Conclusions: This is the first study to show the lower ability of the cuffless BP device to track changes of BP levels after an initial calibration measurement compared to a standard cuff-based device over 24h. Additionally, the difference between the RefBP and the TestBP was nearly linearly associated with the difference between a CalibBP and the changes of the BP level.

Ethnic differences in blood pressure levels over time: the HELIUS study.

Hypertension is an important global health burden with major differences in prevalence among ethnic minorities compared with host populations. Longitudinal research on ethnic differences in blood pressure (BP) levels provides the opportunity to assess the efficacy of strategies aimed at mitigating gaps in hypertension control. In this study, we assessed the change in BP levels over time in a multi-ethnic population-based cohort in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. We used baseline and follow-up data from HELIUS to assess differences in BP over time between participants of Dutch, South Asian Surinamese, African Surinamese, Ghanaian, Moroccan, and Turkish descent. Baseline data were collected between 2011 and 2015 and follow-up data between 2019 and 2021. The main outcome was ethnic differences in systolic BP (SBP) over time determined by linear mixed models adjusted for age, sex, and use of antihypertensive medication. We included 22 109 participants at baseline, from which 10 170 participants had complete follow-up data. The mean follow-up time was 6.3 (1.1) years. Compared with the Dutch population, the mean SBP increased significantly more from baseline to follow-up in Ghanaians [1.78 mmHg, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.77-2.79], Moroccans (2.06 mmHg, 95% CI 1.23-2.90), and the Turkish population (1.30 mmHg, 95% CI 0.38-2.22). Systolic blood pressure differences were in part explained by differences in body mass index (BMI). No differences in SBP trajectory were present between the Dutch and Surinamese population. Our findings indicate a further increase of ethnic differences in SBP among Ghanaian, Moroccan, and Turkish populations compared with the Dutch reference population that are in part attributable to differences in BMI.

S-23-3: EFFECT OF A WORKPLACE-BASED PRIMARY PREVENTION INTERVENTION FOR CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE ON INCIDENCE OF HYPERTENSION - A CLUSTER RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Objective: A workplace-based primary prevention intervention for cardiovascular disease could be an effective approach to encourage employees to adopt a healthy lifestyle and control the occurrence of hypertension. Our objective is to assess the effect of a workplace-based, multicomponent primary intervention strategy for cardiovascular disease on controlling the incidence of hypertension. Methods: A cluster randomized clinical trial was conducted from January 2013 to December 2014 in 60 workplaces across 20 urban regions in China. Workplaces were randomized to either the intervention group (n = 40) or control group (n = 20). All employee participants in each workplace were asked to complete standard questionnaire surveys and physical examinations. Employees in the intervention group were given a two-year workplace wellness intervention program, while those in the control group only maintained the existing health management measures in the workplace and did not receive additional intervention. The incidence of hypertension in baseline non-hypertensive patients in the intervention and control groups, as well as changes in blood pressure levels and lifestyle factors were assessed at the end of the trial. Results: Overall, 21,667 participants (16,488 in the intervention group and 5,179 in the control group) were included (mean [SD] age, 39.2 [9.0] years; 13,207 men [61.0%]). After 24 months of the intervention, the incidence of hypertension in baseline non-hypertensive patients was 7.2% in the intervention group and 8.2% in the control group (RR = 0.88, 95% CI,0.79 to 0.98, P = 0.012). The intervention effect was significant on systolic BP level (beta = -0.42, 95% CI, -0.80 to -0.05; P = 0.027) and on diastolic BP level (beta = -0.37, 95% CI, -0.67 to -0.07; P = 0.014). Moreover, greater improvement was reported in healthy lifestyle, such as the rates of smoking (-1.6%; 95% CI, -2.5% to -0.6%; P &lt; 0.001), drinking (-3.1%; 95% CI, -4.0% to -2.2%; P &lt; 0.001), regular exercise (10.9%; 95% CI, 9.8% to 11.9%; P &lt; 0.001), perceived stress (-5.7%; 95% CI, -6.6% to -4.7%; P = 0.025), fatty food intake (-9.0%; 95% CI, -10.1% to -7.9%; P &lt; 0.001) and excessive use of salt (-5.5%; 95% CI, -6.3% to -4.6%; P &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: This trial found that workplace-based primary prevention interventions for cardiovascular disease appeared to be effective in reducing the prevalence of hypertension, leading to measurable benefits such as lower blood pressure and adoption of healthy lifestyle habits. The intervention can therefore be considered for large-scale use or inclusion in workplaces health promotion programs in China and other countries.

[Follow-up study on the relationship between changes in waist circumference and body weight and changes in blood pressure levels among high cardiovascular risk population].

Objective: To investigate the relationship between changes in waist circumference, body weight, and blood pressure change in a high cardiovascular risk population and to provide a theoretical basis and reference for the prevention and treatment of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Methods: A total of 12 931 patients with a high risk of cardiovascular disease participating in the follow-up survey in 2016 were selected as the study subjects, and their long-term follow-up data from 2017 to 2019 were included in the analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using a t-test, χ2 test, and generalized estimation equation (GEE). Results: Increased waist circumference, body weight, and BMI were associated with a higher risk of elevated blood pressure in people at high risk of cardiovascular disease. Waist circumference, weight, and BMI were reduced when blood pressure levels were lower. SBP and DBP increased by 0.200 (95%CI: 0.164-0.236) mmHg and 0.085 (95%CI: 0.066-0.105) mmHg for each 1 cm increase of waist circumference. SBP increased by 0.355 (95%CI: 0.289-0.421) mmHg and DBP increased by 0.182 (95%CI: 0.144-0.220) mmHg for each 1 kg increase in body weight. For each 1 kg/m2 increase in BMI, SBP increased by 1.100 (95%CI: 1.194-1.258) mmHg, and DBP increased by 0.365 (95%CI: 0.273-0.456) mmHg. Compared with urban residents, SBP changes more with waist circumference and body weight, and DBP changes more with waist circumference in high-risk cardiovascular disease groups (all P for interaction <0.05). SBP with waist circumference and BMI and DBP with BMI was greater in participants without hypertension than in those with hypertension (all P for interaction <0.05). Conclusion: There is a positive linear correlation between the changes in waist circumference, body weight, and BMI and the changes in blood pressure in a high-risk cardiovascular disease population.

Inflammaging and Blood Pressure Profiles in Late Life: The Screening for CKD among Older People across Europe (SCOPE) Study.

The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a marker for systemic inflammation. Since inflammation plays a relevant role in vascular aging, the aim of this study was to investigate whether NLR is associated with blood pressure profiles in older adults. This study was performed within the framework of the SCOPE study including 2461 outpatients aged 75 years and over. Mean blood pressure values, namely systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and pulse pressure (PP) were investigated across tertiles of NLR. Change in blood pressure levels in 2 years of follow-up were compared across categories of baseline NLR. Data of 2397 individuals were used, of which 1854 individuals had hypertension. Mean values of blood pressure did not differ across categories of baseline NLR in individuals without hypertension. Individuals with hypertension with a high-range NLR had lower SBP and PP when compared to those in low-range NLR (mean difference SBP -2.94 mmHg, p = 0.032 and PP -2.55 mmHg, p = 0.030). Mean change in blood pressure in 2 years did only slightly differ in non-clinically relevant ranges, when compared across tertiles of baseline NLR. NLR as a marker of inflammaging was not associated with unfavorable blood pressure profiles in older individuals with or without hypertension.

Family support-based intervention using a mobile application provided by pharmacists for older adults with diabetes to improve glycaemic control: a randomised controlled trial.

Background Family support is crucial in the care of older patients with diabetes. However, more information is needed to evaluate the potential benefits of family-based intervention through a mobile application by pharmacists in the older diabetes patients. Aim To evaluate the effectiveness of family support-based intervention via a mobile application by pharmacists on clinical outcomes, family behaviour, diabetes knowledge, self-management practices and medication adherence in older adults with type 2 diabetes. Method A randomised controlled trial was conducted in a hospital in the south of Thailand with 9months of follow-up. Family members in the intervention group (n = 78) received diabetes educational courses and encouragement via a mobile application from pharmacists to help their older relatives with diabetes in self-management tasks. The control group received usual care (n = 79). Results As compared to baseline, significant improvements were observed in the intervention patients for glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), blood pressure, family behaviour in diabetes care, diabetes knowledge, self-management practices and medication adherence (P < 0.001). The intervention group showed greater decline in HbA1c levels relative to the control group (-0.97% vs. -0.12%; P = 0.001). Significant differences between groups for changes in blood pressure levels including scores of family behaviour, diabetes knowledge, self-management and medication adherence were found (P ≤ 0.001), with the intervention group showing greater improvement. Conclusion Family support intervention via a mobile application by pharmacists is beneficial to diabetes care for older adults.Trial registration number: TCTR20200615001 (date 13 June 2020, retrospectively registered).

Levels of Adherence of an Exercise Referral Scheme in Primary Health Care: Effects on Clinical and Anthropometric Variables and Depressive Symptoms of Hypertensive Patients.

Among the modifiable health behaviors, physical activity (PA) promotion has been one of the challenges in primary care, particularly how to translate the results of proven interventions and implement them in the real world. This study was aimed to compare whether two programs designed for hypertensive patients achieve changes in clinical and anthropometric variables, quality of life, and depressive symptoms; and if higher levels of adherence to one of the interventions using an exercise referral (ER) approach achieved better health outcomes. Pragmatic cluster randomized trials were carried out in four Primary Health Care Units (PHCUs). Physicians in the PHCUs identified hypertensive patients and assessed whether they were eligible to be part of this trial. Each center was randomized to a brief PA counseling (BC, n = 2) or an exercise referral (ER, n = 2) intervention to conducted PA programs among hypertensive patients aged 35–70 years, self-reported as physically inactive. Outcome variables included changes in blood pressure levels, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, fasting glucose, body mass index, waist/hip ratio, abdominal obesity, and metabolic syndrome risk score, health-related quality of life, and depressive symptoms. Longitudinal multilevel analyses assessed the effects of the BC and ER programs and the level of adherence of the ER on clinical, anthropometric, and mental health variables, models were linear for continuous variables, and logistic for dichotomous variables. Differences were observed in triglycerides, BMI, metabolic risk scores variables, and depressive symptoms among ER and BC programs. In addition, differences in the ER group were observed according to the level of adherence in blood pressure levels, waist circumference and waist/hip ratio, depressive symptoms, and the mental health component of health-related quality of life. An ER program in comparison to a BC intervention is promoting changes in some specific health indicators of hypertensive patients, showing the usefulness of these PA programs in primary health care facilities.

A Prospective Study on Anxiety and Blood Pressure Levels in Hemodialysis Patients During COVID-19 Pandemic

Objective: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has currently been one of the leading causes of psychosocial stress throughout the world. We hypothesized that possible changes in anxiety status during the COVID-19 pandemic might affect blood pressure in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Methods: This is an observational cross-sectional study. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) were applied to 71 prevalent HD patients. Pre-dialysis blood pressure was measured, and the systolic blood pressure measurements of 6 consecutive HD sessions were averaged. All assessments were performed both at the beginning (March) and after the end (June) of the partial lockdown, which was officially instituted by the Government in Turkey. Results: The mean age (+/- SD) was 59.2 +/- 14.8 years and 52% of the patients were female. The STAI-State score was higher in March than in June (44.6 +/- 12.6 vs. 42.3 +/- 11.5, respectively, P =.047), whereas the HADS-Anxiety, HADS-Depression, and STAI-Trait scores were not different. The pre-dialysis systolic blood pressure was significantly higher in March than in June (127.9 +/- 20.3 vs. 124.8 +/- 22.8 mmHg, respectively, P =.029). The change in state anxiety score from March to June was remarkable, particularly in patients not taking a beta-blocker (49.3 +/- 9.6 to 43.8 +/- 11.1, P =.001) and in patients younger than the median age of 64 years (48.6 +/- 12.8 to 45.3 +/- 12.5, P =.029). The change in blood pressure level from March to June was found to be significant only in patients not taking a beta-blocker (123.4 +/- 20.2 to 118.2 +/- 20.6 mmHg, P <.001), while it did not reach a statistically significant level in the others. Conclusion: Our findings revealed an association between a higher state of anxiety and a higher blood pressure level in HD patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, which was remarkable particularly in patients not taking a beta-blocker.

Five years of cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) and CAVI0: how close are we to a pressure-independent index of arterial stiffness?

Pulse wave velocity, a common metric of arterial stiffness, is an established predictor for cardiovascular events and mortality. However, its intrinsic pressure-dependency complicates the discrimination of acute and chronic impacts of increased blood pressure on arterial stiffness. Cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) represented a significant step towards the development of a pressure-independent arterial stiffness metric. However, some potential limitations of CAVI might render this arterial stiffness metric less pressure-independent than originally thought. For this reason, we later introduced CAVI0. Nevertheless, advantages of one approach over the other are left debated. This review aims to shed light on the pressure (in)dependency of both CAVI and CAVI0. By critically reviewing results from studies reporting both CAVI and CAVI0 and using simple analytical methods, we show that CAVI0 may enhance the pressure-independent assessment of arterial stiffness, especially in the presence of large inter-individual differences in blood pressure.

MO106A PROSPECTIVE STUDY ON ANXIETY AND BLOOD PRESSURE LEVELS IN HAEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Background and AimsCoronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has currently been one of the leading causes of psychosocial stress worldwide. We hypothesized that possible changes in anxiety status might affect blood pressure in haemodialysis (HD) patients during COVID-19 pandemic.MethodSeventy one prevalent HD patients were included in this prospective study. Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) were applied to assess psychological status of the patients. Peridialysis blood pressure measurements were performed and average of 6 consecutive HD sessions’ pre-dialysis systolic blood pressure measurements were used for statistical analyses. All assessments were performed both at the beginning (March) and after ending (June) of the partial lock-down, which was officially instituted by the Government in parallel with the status of the pandemic in Turkey.ResultsMean age (±SD) was 59.2±14.8 years and 52% of the patients were female. Dose of medications including antihypertensives, dry weight, interdialytic weight gain, and Kt/Vurea were stable during the study period. STAI-state score was higher in March than that in June (44.6±12.6 vs 42.3±11.5, respectively, p=0.047), whereas HADS-anxiety, HADS-depression, and STAI-trait scores were not different. Pre-dialysis systolic blood pressure was significantly higher in March than in June (127.9±20.3 vs 124.8±22.8 mmHg, respectively, p=0.029). Change in state anxiety score from March to June was remarkable particularly in patients not taking a beta-blocker (49.3±9.6 to 43.8±11.1, p=0.001) and in patients younger than the median age of 64 years (48.6±12.8 to 45.3±12.5, p=0.029). Change in blood pressure level from March to June was found to be significant only in patients not taking a beta-blocker (123.4±20.2 to 118.2±20.6 mmHg, p<0.001), while did not reach a statistically significant level in the others.ConclusionOur findings, though need to be confirmed by further studies, revealed an association between a higher state of anxiety and a higher blood pressure level in HD patients in COVID-19 pandemic era, which was remarkable particularly in patients not taking a beta-blocker.

Longitudinal Trends in Blood Pressure Associated With the Frequency of Laughter: The Circulatory Risk in Communities Study (CIRCS), a Longitudinal Study of the Japanese General Population.

BackgroundThe frequency of laughter has been associated with cardiovascular disease and related biomarkers, but no previous studies have examined association between laughter and changes in blood pressure levels. We sought to identify temporal relationships between frequency of laughter in daily life and systolic and diastolic blood pressure changes in participants from 2010 through 2014.MethodsParticipants were 554 men and 887 women aged 40–74 years who answered self-administered questionnaire quantifying frequency of laughter at baseline. We measured participant blood pressure levels twice using automated sphygmomanometers for each year from 2010 to 2014. The associations between laughter and changes in blood pressure over time were analyzed using linear mixed-effect models.ResultsThere was no significant difference in blood pressure according to frequency of laughter at baseline in either sex. Men with frequency of laughter 1 to 3 per month or almost never had significantly increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels over the 4-year period (time-dependent difference: 0.96 mm Hg (95% confidence interval [CI], −0.2 to 1.8; P = 0.05). Changes in blood pressure associated with infrequent laughter (ie, 1 to 3 per month or almost never) were evident in men without antihypertensive medication use over 4 years (0.94 mm Hg; 95% CI, −0.2 to 2.0; P = 0.09) and men who were current drinkers at baseline (1.29 mm Hg; 95% CI, −0.1 to 2.3; P = 0.04). No significant difference was found between frequency of laughter and systolic (0.23 mm Hg; 95% CI, −1.0 to 1.5; P = 0.72) and diastolic (−0.07 mm Hg; 95% CI, −0.8 to 0.7; P = 0.86) blood pressure changes in women.ConclusionsInfrequent laughter was associated with long-term blood pressure increment among middle-aged men.

The longitudinal associations between trajectory of and quantity of alcohol consumption and subsequent changes in blood pressure levels among non-hypertensive adults.

Given the dynamic characteristic of an individual's drinking behaviours, comprehensive consideration of alcohol consumption variation using repeated measures may improve insight into the nature of its association with blood pressure (BP) change. We examined the association between longitudinal alcohol consumption (trajectory and quantity) and changes in BP and pulse pressure (PP) among Korean aged ≥ 40 years living in rural areas. Totally, 1682 hypertension-free participants who completed all three health examinations (median, 5·3 years) were included. All three visits were used to determine the cumulative trajectory of and quantity of alcohol consumption and the latest two visits and the last visit were used for the recent trajectory and the most recent quantity of alcohol consumption, respectively. Changes in BP and PP from the baseline to the third visit were used as outcome. In men, ≥30 ml/d cumulative average alcohol consumption was associated with the greatest increase in systolic BP (SBP) in both baseline outcome-unadjusted (2·9 mmHg, P = 0·032) and -adjusted models (3·6 mmHg, P = 0·001), and the given association for the most recent alcohol consumption was observed in the baseline outcome-adjusted model (3·9 mmHg, P = 0·003). For PP, similar associations were observed only in the baseline outcome-adjusted model. No meaningful associations in diastolic BP in men and any BP or PP in women existed. The quantity of alcohol consumption rather than the trajectory may be significantly related to raised SBP, and a possible short-term influence of the most recent alcohol consumption may exist when baseline SBP is adjusted in men.

An international multicenter observational non-interventional prospective study of the efficacy of azilsartan medoxomil in overweight or obese patients with arterial hypertension (CONSTANT)

Background Control of arterial hypertension in obese or overweight patients is complicated since obesity directly contributes to increased blood pressure, requiring new, highly effective antihypertensive drugs. This study evaluates the efficacy of azilsartan medoxomil in real clinical practice. Methods An international multicenter observational non-interventional prospective study of azilsartan medoxomil was conducted in 64 clinical centers in the Russian Federation and 5 centers in the Republic of Kazakhstan. This study included 1945 obese or overweight patients with arterial hypertension. Azilsartan medoxomil was prescribed in accordance with the approved instruction for use. The decision to prescribe the drug, dose adjustment and monitoring target BP achievement belonged to the attending physicians according to their routine clinical practice. The observation period took about 6 months. Results The average duration of taking the medicine was 26.1 ± 4 weeks. By the fourth visit, the use of azilsartan medoxomil either in a monotherapy regimen or in free combinations resulted in a pronounced decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 30.5 ± 13.4 and 14 ± 9.4 mmHg, respectively (p < .001 compared to baseline value). A positive response to therapy was observed in 92.6% of cases (95% CI: 91.3–93.7%). Target blood pressure was achieved by 86.4% of cases (95% CI: 84.8–87.9%). During the study period 43 adverse events were recorded, the most common of which were arterial hypotension and dizziness. Conclusions Over the study time of 1945 patients, significant changes in blood pressure levels over time were noted, and a high frequency of response to the azilsartan therapy was observed. Adverse events related to the study drug were of mild or moderate intensity and did not require discontinuation of therapy. Thus, azilsartan medoxomil demonstrated a good safety profile and provided effective blood pressure control for overweight or obese patients with hypertension in real clinical practice.

Effectiveness of a targeted and tailored pharmacist-led intervention to improve adherence to antihypertensive drugs among patients with type 2 diabetes in Indonesia: A cluster randomised controlled trial.

AimTo assess the effects of a targeted and tailored pharmacist‐led intervention among patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) who are nonadherent to antihypertensive drugs.MethodsA cluster‐randomised controlled trial was conducted in 10 community health centres (CHCs) in Indonesia among T2DM patients aged ≥18 years who reported nonadherence to antihypertensive drugs according to the Medication Adherence Report Scale (MARS‐5). Patients in CHCs randomised to the intervention group received a tailored intervention based on their adherence barriers (eg, forgetfulness, lack of knowledge, lack of motivation and/or other drug‐related problems) using a simple question‐based flowchart at baseline and 1‐month follow‐up. Patients in control CHCs received usual care. Primary outcome was the between‐group difference in change in MARS‐5 score from baseline to 3‐month follow‐up. Secondary outcomes included changes in patients' blood pressure and their medication beliefs. Differences in difference in primary and secondary outcomes between groups were assessed using general linear models.ResultsIn total, 201 patients were screened for eligibility, 113 met the inclusion criteria and participated, and 89 (79%) patients had complete follow‐up. Forgetfulness (42%) and lack of knowledge (18%) were the most common adherence barriers identified at baseline. The intervention improved medication adherence by 4.62 points on the MARS‐5 scale (95% CI 0.93 to 8.34, P value = 0.008). There were no significant changes in blood pressure levels and beliefs about antihypertensive drugs.ConclusionA tailored low‐cost pharmacist‐led intervention aimed at nonadherent T2DM patients resulted in an improvement in medication adherence to antihypertensive drugs. There were no significant changes in secondary outcomes.