Inter-arm Blood Pressure Difference Research Articles

P111 INTER-ARM DIFFERENCE IN SYSTOLIC BLOOD PRESSURE AMONG YOUNG POPULATION IN ABEOKUTA, NIGERIA

Background and Objective: Inter-arm blood pressure differences (IABPD) are linked to higher cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Unfortunately, the profile and associated risk factors of IABPD in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Nigeria are poorly studied. This study aims to determine the profile and associated correlates of systolic IABPD among the participants in the profile of anthropometry and psychosocial issues on campus (TERRACE) study, a cohort of young persons on selected tertiary educational campuses in Abeokuta metropolis aged 16-35years. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Basic demographic, anthropometric, and clinical data were collected. Brachial Blood Pressure (BP) were recorded in both arms, using validated electronic devices. Three standard measurements were performed on both arms. The IABPD was defined as the absolute value of the difference in systolic blood pressure(SBP) between the left and right arms of BP averages. Significant IABPD ≥10 mmHg. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. The level of statistical significance was set at <0.05. Results: A total of 301 participants with age, 21.8±4.9 years and female proportion of 65.1%. The mean±SD of neck circumference, weight, height, right SBP, left SBP were 26.2 ± 3.6 cm, 58.0 ± 10.0 kg, 164.1 ± 10.4 cm, 112.9± 11.6mmHg and 112.0 ± 11.1 mmHg respectively. The median systolic IABPD was 0.6 mmHg, and the prevalence of significant systolic IABPD is 9.0% (11.4% in males and 7.7% in females, p- value: 0.275). Among our participants, there were 6.0%, 2.3% and 0.7% with a systolic IABPD in the ranges: 10-14.9mmHg, 15-19.9mmHg and ≥ 20mmHg respectively. The proportion with dominantly high right SBP was 54.4% in males compared to females (41.9%), p- value: 0.209. There was a correlation between height and IABPD (r2=0.177, p-value=0.002) Conclusion: Our study found that this young population have high IABPD, suggesting increased cardiovascular risk. Routine measurement in both arms is advised.

Prevalence of interarm blood pressure difference is notably higher in women; the Viborg population-based screening program (VISP)

BackgroundBilateral blood pressure (BP) measurement is important in cardiovascular prevention for identifying systolic interarm BP difference (IAD) and hypertension. We investigated sex-stratified IAD prevalence and its associations and coexistence with screen-detected peripheral atherosclerosis and hypertension. Furthermore, we determined the proportion misclassified as non-hypertensive when using the lower versus the higher reading arm.MethodsThis sub-study formed part of the Viborg Screening Program (VISP), a cross-sectorial population-based cardiovascular screening programme targeting 67-year-old Danes. VISP includes screening for peripheral atherosclerosis (lower extremity arterial disease and carotid plaque), abdominal aortic aneurysm, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and cardiac disease. Self-reported comorbidities, risk factors, and medication use were also collected. Among 4,602 attendees, 4,517 (82.1%) had eligible bilateral and repeated BP measurements. IAD was defined as a systolic BP difference ≥ 10 mmHg. IAD-associated factors (screening results and risk factors) were estimated by logistic regression; proportional coexistence was displayed by Venn diagrams (screening results).ResultsWe included 2,220 women (49.2%) and 2,297 men (50.8%). IAD was more predominant in women (26.8%) than men (21.0%) (p < 0.001). This disparity persisted after adjustment [odds ratio (OR) 1.53; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.32–1.77]. No other association was recorded with the conditions screened for, barring potential hypertension: BP 140–159/90–99 mmHg (OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.44–1.97) and BP ≥ 160/100 mmHg (OR 1.82, 95% CI 1.49–2.23). Overall, IAD and BP ≥ 160/100 mmHg coexistence was 4% in women and 5% in men; for BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg, 13% and 14%, respectively. Among those recording a mean BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg in the higher reading arm, 14.5% of women and 15.3% of men would be misclassified as non-hypertensive compared with the lowest reading arm.ConclusionFemale sex was an independent factor of IAD prevalence but not associated with other arterial lesions. Approximately 15% needed reclassification according to BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg when the lower rather than the higher reading arm was used; verifying bilateral BP measurements improved detection of potential hypertension. In future, the predictive value of sex-stratified IAD should be assessed for cardiovascular events and death to verify its potential as a screening tool in population-based cardiovascular screening.Trial registration for VISPNCT03395509:10/12/2018.

Cross-sectional study of the prevalence of inter-arm blood pressure difference in offspring of normotensive and hypertensive parents among students of tertiary care teaching hospital, Hyderabad

Cross-sectional study of the prevalence of inter-arm blood pressure difference in offspring of normotensive and hypertensive parents among students of tertiary care teaching hospital, Hyderabad

Association of Increased Inter-arm Blood Pressure Difference with Long-term Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction Who Underwent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention.

Objective Patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) often have peripheral artery disease (PAD). It is well known that the long-term clinical outcomes of AMI are worse in patients with a low ankle-brachial index (ABI) than in patients with a preserved ABI. Unlike ABI, the association between the inter-arm blood pressure difference (IABPD) and clinical outcomes in patients with AMI has not yet been established. This retrospective study examined whether or not the IABPD is associated with long-term clinical outcomes in patients with AMI. Methods We included 979 patients with AMI and divided them into a high-IABPD group (IABPD ≥10 mmHg, n=31) and a low-IABPD group (IABPD <10 mmHg, n=948) according to the IABPD measured during hospitalization for AMI. The primary endpoint was the all-cause mortality rate. Results During a median follow-up duration of 694 days (Q1, 296 days; Q3, 1,281 days), 82 all-cause deaths were observed. Kaplan-Meier curves showed that all-cause death was more frequently observed in the high-IABPD group than in the low-IABPD group (p<0.001). A multivariate Cox hazard analysis revealed that a high IABPD was significantly associated with all-cause death (hazard ratio 2.061, 95% confidence interval 1.012-4.197, p=0.046) after controlling for multiple confounding factors. Conclusion A high IABPD was significantly associated with long-term all-cause mortality in patients with AMI. Our results suggest the usefulness of the IABPD as a prognostic marker for patients with AMI.

Evaluation of the inter-arm blood pressure difference in subjects with hypertension in Nnewi North Local Government Area, Anambra state

Hypertension is defined as a sustained elevated blood pressure with a systolic blood pressure (SBP) of 140mmHg or more and a diastolic blood pressure of 90mmHg or more. The evaluation of the inter-arm blood pressure difference in subjects with hypertension in Nnewi North Local Government Area, Anambra state was done via sampling techniques. The study population was obtained using convenience sampling method and comprised of male and female hypertensive patients aged 25 to 90 years, from the cardiology unit NAUTH Nnewi. Normotensive subjects of the same age range and gender were used as control. The sample size was determined to be 70 subjects using this formula: n= (z2pq)/d2). The result of the finding showed that there was a significant increase in the mean age when the control was compared to the hypertensive group, and no significant difference in their weight, height and BMI. Furthermore, the findings of this research also supported a significant increase in the left arterial systolic and diastolic blood pressure in the control compared to the hypertensive groups. Also, the mean right systolic and diastolic blood pressure showed a significant increase when the control was compared to the hypertensive group. The inter-arm systolic and diastolic blood pressure had no significant difference when control was compared to the hypertensive group.

Association of interarm blood pressure difference with selected body circumferences among Walter Sisulu University community

BackgroundA high interarm blood pressure difference (IAD) has been identified as a precursor of vascular diseases. Anthropometric measures for obesity such as body circumferences including waist circumference (WC), mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) and neck circumference (NC) have been associated with a high IAD in Western countries. However, the prevalence of IAD and its association with body circumferences in South African communities such as universities is not well established. Therefore, this study aimed at investigating the correlation of IAD with selected body circumferences among the Walter Sisulu University (WSU) community.MethodsA total of 230 participants, 117 males and 113 females, consisting of 185 students and 45 staff members from WSU, aged 18–27 and 18–63 years respectively, participated in this cross-sectional study. The selected body circumferences: WC, MUAC, and NC were measured using standard procedures. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured in both arms simultaneously using automated machines. IAD was achieved by calculating differences in SBP and DBP between the left (L) and right (R) arms, (R -L), and getting the absolute value, L–R (|L–R|).Results14.78% of the participants had an interarm SBP difference (IASBPD) ≥ 10 mmHg, and 4.35% of participants had an interarm DBP difference (IADBPD) ≥ 10 mmHg.In a Pearson’s correlation analysis, IASBPD was positively correlated with the selected body circumferences (WC, r = 0.29; P < 0.001; MUAC, r = 0.35; P < 0.001; NC, r = 0.27; P < 0.001) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) (r = 0.30; P < 0.001). In the multivariable-adjusted regression analyses, IASBPD was positively associated with MUAC (adjusted R2 = 0.128, β = 0.271 (95% CI = 0.09; 0.60), P = 0.008), and NC (adjusted R2 = 0.119, β = 0.190 (95% CI = 0.01; 0.32), P = 0.032) only, adjusted for MAP, age, gender, body mass index, smoking, and alcohol. There was no association of body circumferences with IADBPD.ConclusionA high IAD is common among students and staff members of the WSU community. Furthermore, IAD showed a positive correlation with MUAC and NC. These body circumferences can serve as indicators of high IAD, aiding in the early detection and prevention of vascular diseases.

Prevalence and factors associated with inter-arm systolic and diastolic blood pressure differences: results from the baseline Fasa Adult’s Cohort Study (FACS)

BackgroundOne of the modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular diseases is the inter-arm blood pressure difference (IAD), which can be easily measured. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors related to the Iranian population’s inter-arm differences in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.MethodThis cross-sectional study was conducted on the baseline data of participants who had Iranian nationality, were at least 1 year of residence in the area, aged within the age range of 35–70 years, and willed to participate from the Fasa Persian Adult Cohort Study (FACS). IAD for systolic and diastolic blood pressure was measured and categorized into two groups of difference < 10 and ≥ 10 mmHg. Logistic regression was used to model the association between independent variables and IAD.ResultsThe prevalence of systolic and diastolic IAD ≥ 10 mmHg was 16.34% and 10.2%, respectively, among 10,124 participants. According to the multivariable logistic regression models, age (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.019 [95% CI: 1.013, 1.025]), body mass index (BMI) (aOR: 1.112 [95% CI: 1.016, 1.229]), having type 2 diabetes (aOR Yes/No: 1.172 [95% CI: 1.015, 1.368]), having chronic headaches (aOR Yes/No: 1.182 [95% CI: 1.024, 1.365]), and pulse rate (aOR: 1.019 [95% CI: 1.014, 1.024]) significantly increased the odds of systolic IAD ≥ 10 mmHg. Additionally, high socio-economic status decreased the odds of systolic IAD ≥ 10 mmHg (aOR High/Low: 0.854 [95% CI: 0.744, 0.979]). For diastolic IAD, age (aOR: 1.112 [95% CI: 1.015, 1.210]) and pulse rate (aOR: 1.021 [95% CI: 1.015, 1.027]) significantly increased the odds of diastolic IAD ≥ 10 mmHg. Moreover, high socioeconomic status decreased the odds of diastolic IAD ≥ 10 mmHg (aOR High/Low: 0.820 [95% CI: 0.698, 0.963]).ConclusionThe noticeable prevalence of systolic and diastolic IAD in general population exhibits health implications due to its’ association with the risk of cardiovascular events. Sociodemographic and medical history assessments have potentials to be incorporated in IAD risk stratification and preventing programs.

Are aneroid and digital sphygmomanometers as reliable and accurate as mercury sphygmomanometers?

Background: The accurate measurement of blood pressure (BP) is crucial for effectively treating hypertension, which stands as a primary risk factor for both cardiovascular disease and premature mortality. The shift from mercury to nonmercury sphygmomanometers in developing countries due to environmental concerns prompts an evaluation of the accuracy of these alternatives. Aims and Objectives: The objectives of this study were to evaluate the precision of non-mercury instruments in diagnosing hypertension and to analyze interarm differences in both systolic and diastolic BP using three different sphygmomanometers. Materials and Methods: Sixty subjects aged 18–25 were included. BP measurements were taken from both arms using different types of sphygmomanometers. Statistical analysis involved paired t-tests, Chi-square tests for correlations, and a significance threshold of P &lt; 0.05. Results: Significant differences in systolic BP readings were observed between the gold standard (mercury manometer) and digital/aneroid devices (P = 0.00). Compared to the mercury manometer, both digital and aneroid devices showed limited accuracy in detecting hypertension. Kappa agreement was moderate at 0.57. Despite high specificity (100%), sensitivity was lower at 44.4%, indicating a risk of missing true positive cases. Both devices exhibited a sensitivity of 25%, with fair to poor agreement (kappa values) in identifying cardiovascular risk compared to the mercury reference. Conclusion: This study underscores the diminished reliability of both aneroid and digital devices in detecting hypertension and assessing cardiovascular risk using specified interarm BP criteria. These findings emphasize the crucial need for further research and caution when relying on non-mercury devices in clinical settings.

Inter-arm blood pressure difference in post-stroke patients with hemiparesis.

The aim of this study was to investigate that inter-arm blood pressure (BP) difference (IAD) and reference arm in 420 post-stroke patients with hemiparesis. Synchronous bilateral-arm BP was measured with two automatic BP devices, and the systolic BP difference of ≥10 mm Hg was recorded as increased sIAD. The arm with higher systolic BP (SBP) was assigned as the reference arm. Our results showed that the prevalence of sIAD was 18.1% in the total group. The paretic arms had similar mean SBP levels (133.6±18.4 vs. 133.8±18.4 mm Hg, NS) and DBP (77.8±11.5 vs. 77.2±10.9 mm Hg, NS) as compared with the unaffected arms. The detection rate of hypertension or uncontrolled hypertension on the SBP values of the reference arm was higher than that on the unaffected arm (41.8% vs. 36.3%). It is concluded that in the post-stroke patients with hemiparesis in the rehabilitation period, the prevalence of sIAD ≥10 mmHg was relatively higher, and using the unaffected arm, rather than the unaffected arm, for BP measurement could induce correctly detection of hypertension.

Smartphone-Based versus Non-Invasive Automatic Oscillometric Brachial Cuff Blood Pressure Measurements: A Prospective Method Comparison Volunteer Study.

Introduction: Mobile health diagnostics have demonstrated effectiveness in detecting and managing chronic diseases. This method comparison study aims to assess the accuracy and precision of the previously evaluated OptiBP™ technology over a four-week study period. This device uses optical signals recorded by placing a patient's fingertip on a smartphone's camera to estimate blood pressure (BP). Methods: In adult participants without cardiac arrhythmias and minimal interarm blood pressure difference (systolic arterial pressure (SAP) < 15 mmHg or diastolic arterial pressure (DAP) < 10 mmHg), three pairs of 30 s BP measurements with the OptiBP™ (test method) were simultaneously compared using three pairs of measurements with the non-invasive oscillometric brachial cuff (reference method) on the opposite arm over a period of four consecutive weeks at a rate of two measurements per week (one in the morning and one in the afternoon). The agreement of BP values between the two technologies was analyzed using Bland-Altman and error grid analyses. The performance of the smartphone application was investigated using the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) definitions, which require the bias ± standard deviation (SD) between two technologies to be lower than 5 ± 8 mmHg. Results: Among the 65 eligible volunteers, 53 participants had adequate OptiBP™ BP values. In 12 patients, no OptiBP™ BP could be measured due to inadequate signals. Only nine participants had known chronic arterial hypertension and 76% of those patients were treated. The mean bias ± SD between both technologies was -1.4 mmHg ± 10.1 mmHg for systolic arterial pressure (SAP), 0.2 mmHg ± 6.5 mmHg for diastolic arterial pressure (DAP) and -0.5 mmHg ± 6.9 mmHg for mean arterial pressure (MAP). Error grid analyses indicated that 100% of the pairs of BP measurements were located in zones A (no risk) and B (low risk). Conclusions: In a cohort of volunteers, we observed an acceptable agreement between BP values obtained with the OptiBPTM and those obtained with the reference method over a four-week period. The OptiBPTM fulfills the ISO standards for MAP and DAP (but not SAP). The error grid analyses showed that 100% measurements were located in risk zones A and B. Despite the need for some technological improvements, this application may become an important tool to measure BP in the future.

Interarm Blood Pressure Difference in Young Healthy Adults.

Inter-arm difference in blood pressure is the difference in the systolic and the diastolic blood pressure between arms of an individual. According to American heart association, interarm Blood Pressure difference of more than 10 mm of Hg are associated with peripheral vascular disease. The present study aims to determine the magnitude of interarm difference in young healthy individuals and to assess whether family history of hypertension, age, sex and Body mass index is related to higher interarm difference Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 270 students of Manipal College of Medical Sciences, Pokhara, Nepal. Blood pressure was measured in both the arms using a mercury sphygmomanometer. (Elko 300) Statistical analysis was done using paired t test, chi-square and Pearson's correlation test using SPSS 23. The absolute mean Inter-arm difference for systolic blood pressure was 11.03±0.67mm Hg and for diastolic blood pressure was 6.020 ±0.21 mm Hg. There is significant inter-arm difference for systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure (p<0.001). Inter-arm systolic blood pressure difference was significantly associated with family history of hypertension, age and Body Mass Index (p<0.001) Meanwhile, there was no statistically significant association of sex, family history of hypertension, age and Body Mass Index with inter-arm difference for diastolic blood pressure. Significant inter-arm systolic and diastolic blood pressure differences was found in the young, healthy population. Positive correlation of increased Inter-arm difference in Blood Pressure with family history of hypertension was confirmed. This emphasizes the importance of measuring blood pressure in both arms to be a routine practice as we aim for early diagnosis and prompt treatment of hypertensive disorders.

Systolic inter-arm blood pressure difference and estimated glomerular filtration rate in type 2 diabetic patients in Palestine: a cross-sectional study

Objectives This study aimed to investigate the association between systolic inter-arm blood pressure difference (IABPD) and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), as well as chronic kidney disease (CKD), in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Patients and methods This cross-sectional study included 189 Palestinians diagnosed with T2DM. Data were collected through personal interviews, medical records and three separate blood pressure measurements from both arms. Patients were stratified in two ways: based on systolic IABPD ≥15 mmHg and the presence of CKD, indicated by an eGFR of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 over a three months period. We used simple and multiple linear regression analyses to clarify the association between systolic IABPD (mmHg) and eGFR and to identify independent predictors for eGFR. Results The mean age was 61.3 years, with a female percentage of 57.7%. The prevalence of systolic IABPD ≥15 mmHg and CKD was 27.5% and 30.2%, respectively. Among patients with eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2, the median systolic IABPD was 12.5 mmHg (interquartile range (IQR), 13.5 mmHg), whereas in patients with eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2, it was 7.5 mmHg (IQR, 9.8 mmHg) with a significant difference (p = .021). The results of the multiple linear regression model did not reveal an independent association between systolic IABPD and eGFR, with an unstandardized coefficient (B) of −0.257 (95% confidence interval (CI), −0.623 to 0.109; p = .167). However, older age (B, −0.886; 95% CI, −1.281 to −0.49; p < .001), hypertension (B, −12.715; 95% CI, −22.553 to −2.878; p = .012) and a longer duration of DM (B, −0.642; 95% CI, −1.10 to −0.174; p = .007) were significantly and negatively associated with eGFR. Conclusions Systolic IABPD did not exhibit an independent association with eGFR in T2DM patients. However, older age, a previous history of hypertension, and a longer duration of DM were all significantly associated with lower eGFR.

Inter-Arm Blood Pressure Difference an Indicator of Coronary Artery Disease.

Considering the scarcity of the literature on the association between inter-arms blood pressure difference (IABPD) and coronary artery disease (CAD). We performed this study to investigate the prevalence of IABPD within the Jordanian population and to assess if it has an association with CAD. We sampled patients visiting the cardiology clinics at the Jordan University Hospital between October, 2019 and October 2021 into two groups. Participants were divided into two groups; patients with severe CAD and control group who had no evidence of CAD. We measured the blood pressure for a total of 520 patients. Of the included patients, 289 (55.6 %) had CAD while 231 (44.4%) were labeled as controls who were normal. A total of 221 (42.5%) participants had systolic IABPD above 10 mmHg, while 140 (26.9%) had a diastolic IABPD above 10 mmHg. Univariate analysis demonstrated that patients with CAD were significantly more likely to be older (p < 0.001), of the male gender (p < 0.001), hypertensive (p < 0.001), and having dyslipidemia (p < 0.001). Moreover, they had significantly higher IABPD differences in terms of both systolic and diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.001 and p = 0.022, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that CAD was a positive predictor of abnormal systolic IABPD. In our study, elevated systolic IABPD was associated with a higher prevalence of severe CAD. Patients with abnormal IABPD might be subjected to more specialist investigation as IABPD consistently predicts coronary artery disease, peripheral arterial disease or other vasculopathy throughout the literature.

Association between inter-arm blood pressure difference and cardiovascular disease: result from baseline Fasa Adults Cohort Study

The inter-arm blood pressure difference has been advocated to be associated with cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Our study aimed to investigate the association between Inter-arm systolic and diastolic blood pressure differences and Cardio Vascular Disease (CVD). A total of 10,126 participants aged 35–70 years old were enrolled in a prospective Fasa Persian Adult Cohort. In this cross-sectional study, the cutoff values for inter-arm blood pressure difference were less than 5, greater than 5, greater than 10, and greater than 15 mm Hg. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used to analyze the data. Based on the results the prevalence of ≥ 15 mmHg inter-arm systolic and diastole blood pressure difference (inter-arm SBPD and inter-arm DBPD) were 8.08% and 2.61%. The results of logistic regression analysis showed that inter-arm SBPD ≥ 15 and (OR<5/≥15 = 1.412; 95%CI = 1.099–1.814) and inter-arm DBPD ≥ 10 (OR<5/≥10 = 1.518; 95%CI = 1.238–1.862) affected the risk of CVD. The results showed that the differences in BP between the arms had a strong positive relationship with CVD. Therefore, inter-arm blood pressure could be considered a marker for the prevention and diagnosis of CVD for physicians.

The effect of interarm blood pressure difference on coronary collateral flow in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction who had undergone primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

In patients with acute myocardial infarction, coronary collateral circulation (CCC) is associated with reduced infarct size, preserved cardiac function, and decreased mortality. An interarm blood pressure difference (IABPD) is shown to be independently associated with cardiovascular and all-cause of mortality. We aimed to determine the effect of IABPD on coronary collateral flow in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who had undergone primary percutaneous coronary intervention (p-PCI). We prospectively investigated 1,348 consecutive patients who were hospitalized for STEMI and underwent p-PCI. The Rentrop classification was used to assess CCC. According to this classification, we defined Rentrop 0 and 1 as poor CCC, and Rentrop 2 and 3 as good CCC. A 10 mm Hg difference is considered the upper limit of IABPD. Patients were divided into two groups according to the collateral circulation, 325 patients (24%) had good collateral, while 1,023 patients (76%) had poor collateral. IABPD was significantly higher in the poor collateral group (57 patients, 5.6%) than in the good collateral group (9 patients, 2.8%) (p=0.04). Pre-infarction angina and IABPD were identified as independent predictors of poor collateral (OR: 0.516, 95% CI 0.370-0.631, p=0.007; OR: 3.681, 95% CI: 1.773-7.461, p=0.01, respectively) in multivariate analysis. The IABPD was shown as an independent predictor of poor collateral circulation in patients with STEMI who underwent p-PC.

ABNORMAL INTER-ARM SYATOLIC BLOOD PRESSURE DIFFERENCE IN ADULTS WITH CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE

Objective: Many papers have been reported that hypertension and cardiovascular disease are high frequency in adults with congenital heart disease. It is well known that significant inter-arm blood pressure difference can predict cardiovascular risk. We investigate the inter-arm blood pressure difference in adults with congenital heart disease. Design and method: We enrolled 100 consecutive subjects aged 20 years or more, who visited the Department of Adult Congenital Heart Disease, Chiba Cardiovascular Center. The exclusion criteria were history of arrhythmia, which makes accurate pulse wave analysis impossible and history of cardiac operation within 6 months. The patients were classified into 3 groups. The patients in group A had undergone surgery, which sacrifice subclavian arteries (subclavian flap method and original Blalock-Taussig shunt). The patients in group B had undergone surgery to their subclavian arteries, which conserve their subclavian arteries (modified Blalock- Taussig shunt). The patients in group C had not undergone surgery to their subclavian arteries. The bilateral brachial blood pressures were simultaneously measured using form PWV/ABI (Colin, Komaki, Japan). The inter-arm systolic blood pressure difference greater than 10mmHg was defined as significant inter-arm systolic blood pressure difference. Results: Patients’ age was 36.6±14.9 years. Mean difference between bilateral brachial systolic blood pressures was 8.2±13.6 mmHg. Twenty-one patients demonstrated the inter-arm systolic blood pressure difference (29%). Nine patients were classified as group A and all patients in group A demonstrated inter-arm systolic blood pressure difference (29.1±35.6mmHg). Sixteen patients were classified as group B and 9 patients had undergone modified Blalock-Taussig shunt bilaterally. Four patients (44%) in group B demonstrated inter-arm systolic blood pressure difference (bilateral; 3, unilateral: 1). In 75 group C patients, 8 patients (11%) demonstrated inter-arm systolic blood pressure difference. There was no difference between group C patients in with and without the inter-arm systolic blood pressure difference in body mass index, hemoglobin A1 level, lipid profile. Conclusions: The significant inter-arm systolic blood pressure difference in adults with congenital heart disease is not uncommon. The intervention can strongly influence on their inter-arm systolic blood pressure difference.

ASSOCIATIONS OF INTER-ARM BLOOD PRESSURE DIFFERENCE WITH TREATMENT RESPONSE IN NEWLY TREATED HYPERTENSION

Objective: Inter-arm differences (IAD) in systolic blood pressure (SBP) predict future cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. IAD varies between measures and gets smaller with repeated measures. The relationship of IAD to response to antihypertensive treatment is unknown. We set out to examine associations of IAD with BP treatment response over 18 weeks in treatment-naïve adults with moderate to severe hypertension. Design and method: We previously reported that nurse-led accelerated stepwise management of treatment-naïve grade II/III hypertension is feasible, safe and effective, achieving control of SBP to &lt; 140 mmHg for 76% after 18 weeks. Using this cohort, univariable associations of IAD (mean of 8 simultaneous BP measurements) with vascular and clinical indices, and with BP change on treatment, were examined with mixed-effects linear regression models. Candidate univariable indices (p&lt;0.2) entered multivariable modelling. Regression modelling of change in IAD was undertaken. All analyses adjusted for age, sex and entry SBP. Results: For 52 participants (mean age 59; 42% female), mean (standard deviation: SD) entry SBP was 171 (13.9) mmHg falling, after protocol-led treatment intensification, to 131 (10.7) mmHg at 18 weeks; mean systolic IAD was 4.5 (4.2) mmHg at entry and 3.9 (4.3) mmHg at 18 weeks (p = 0.28). In final adjusted models, IAD at entry was associated with handedness, height, body mass index, smoking and absence of pedal pulses. Greater reduction of SBP from entry to 18 weeks was associated with lower entry IAD, greater SD of daytime ambulatory BP, smoking history and handedness. Adjusted change in IAD over 18 weeks was correlated with falls in SBP (Adjusted R2 = 0.56). Conclusions: These data associate greater systolic IAD with reduced response to intensive BP lowering, and correlate reduction in IAD with change in BP. Slower BP target achievement can carry prognostic implications, suggesting one possible mechanism whereby IAD might predict future mortality.

Impact of Fasting Blood Glucose Levels on Blood Pressure Parameters among Older Adults with Prediabetes.

Prediabetes mellitus (pre-DM) is defined as blood glucose levels higher than normal but lower than the threshold for diabetes mellitus (DM) diagnosis. Four-limb blood pressure (BP) differences can help identify a significant risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The current study aimed to determine the importance of BP and the ankle-brachial index (ABI) between two patient groups and the association between fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels and four-limb BP, ABI, interarm BP difference (IAD), and interleg BP difference (ILD). Moreover, the effect of cardiovascular risk factors on the development of pre-DM among older adults was evaluated. The participants were divided into the normal fasting glucose (NFG) and impaired fasting glucose (IFG) groups. Data on physical characteristics, lipid profiles, four-limb BP, ABI, IAD, ILD, and cardiovascular risk factors were assessed. The IFG group had a significantly higher systolic blood pressure (SBP) and pulse pressure than the NFG group (p < 0.05). SBP was significantly positively correlated with FBG levels (p < 0.05). The IFG group had a lower ABI than the NFG group (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in terms of IAD and ILD between the two groups. Furthermore, hypertension (HT), metabolic syndrome (MetS), and dyslipidemia were significantly correlated with a high prevalence of prediabetes (p < 0.05). Individuals with prediabetes had a higher BP than those with normoglycemia. Prediabetes was correlated with HT, MetS, and dyslipidemia.

Different associations of general and abdominal obesity with upper and lower extremity artery disease among a community population in China

BackgroundThe associations between obesity and abnormalities of upper and lower extremity arteries remain to be elucidated. This study is aimed to investigate whether general obesity and abdominal obesity are associated with upper and lower extremity artery diseases in a Chinese community population.MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 13,144 participants in a Chinese community population. The associations between obesity parameters and abnormalities of upper and lower extremity arteries were evaluated. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess the independence of associations between obesity indicators and abnormalities of peripheral arteries. Nonlinear relationship between body mass index (BMI) and risk of ankle-brachial index (ABI) ≤ 0.9 was evaluated using a restricted cubic spline model.ResultsThe prevalence of ABI ≤ 0.9 and interarm blood pressure difference (IABPD) ≥ 15 mmHg in the subjects was 1.9% and 1.4% respectively. Waist circumference (WC) was independently associated with ABI ≤ 0.9 (OR 1.014, 95% CI 1.002–1.026, P = 0.017). Nevertheless, BMI was not independently associated with ABI ≤ 0.9 using linear statistical models. Meanwhile, BMI and WC were independently associated with IABPD ≥ 15 mmHg respectively (OR 1.139, 95% CI 1.100–1.181, P < 0.001, and OR 1.058, 95% CI 1.044–1.072, P < 0.001). Furthermore, prevalence of ABI ≤ 0.9 was displayed with a U-shaped pattern according to different BMI (< 20, 20 to < 25, 25 to < 30, and ≥ 30). Compared with BMI 20 to < 25, risk of ABI ≤ 0.9 was significantly increased when BMI < 20 or ≥ 30 respectively (OR 2.595, 95% CI 1.745–3.858, P < 0.001, or OR 1.618, 95% CI 1.087–2.410, P = 0.018). Restricted cubic spline analysis indicated a significant U-shaped relationship between BMI and risk of ABI ≤ 0.9 (P for non-linearity < 0.001). However, prevalence of IABPD ≥ 15 mmHg was significantly increased with incremental BMI (P for trend < 0.001). Compared with BMI 20 to < 25, the risk of IABPD ≥ 15 mmHg was significantly increased when BMI ≥ 30 (OR 3.218, 95% CI 2.133–4.855, P < 0.001).ConclusionsAbdominal obesity is an independent risk factor for upper and lower extremity artery diseases. Meanwhile, general obesity is also independently associated with upper extremity artery disease. However, the association between general obesity and lower extremity artery disease is displayed with a U-shaped pattern.

The Predictive Value of Inter Arm Blood Pressure Difference, Inter Leg Blood Pressure Difference and Ankle Brachial Index for Acute Aortic Dissection.

Abnormal inter arm systolic blood pressure, inter leg systolic blood pressure and ankle brachial index (ABI) are related to vascular diseases. Our aim was to evaluate the correlation of inter arm systolic blood pressure difference (IASBPD), inter leg systolic blood pressure difference (ILSBPD), and ABI with acute aortic dissection (AAD) and their role in predicting AAD. In this prospective case-control study, 180 patients with AAD admitted to the emergency department were prospectively and consecutively collected in Tongji Hospital from October 2019 to December 2020. 180 healthy people matched by sex, age and BMI served as control group. All participants were adults over 18 years of age who underwent four-limb blood pressure measurements. IASBPD, ILSBPD and ABI were compared between the two groups and their associations with AAD were analyzed. A total of 360 patients (180 cases and 180 controls) were analyzed. In case group IASBPD was larger [(15.23 16.15) mm Hg vs. (4.19 3.63) mm Hg] and ILSBPD was larger (13.00 mm Hg vs. 5.70 mm Hg). ABI was smaller [(0.98 0.24) vs. (1.12 0.09)], and the difference was statistically significant (all p 0.05). According to the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), IASBPD 10 mm Hg (Sen 61.7%, Spe 88.9%), ILSBPD 13 mm Hg (Sen 50.6%, Spe 80.6%) and ABI 0.9 (Sen 53.3%, Spe 87.2%), showed significant correlation with AAD (all p 0.001). Compared with healthy people, IASBPD and ILSBPD levels were higher and ABI levels were lower in patients with AAD. IASBPD 10 mm Hg and ILSBPD 13 mm Hg can be used as indicators for early screening of AAD, and IASBPD 10 mm Hg has better predictive value for the occurrence of AAD. In patients with typical chest pain, attention needs to be paid to measuring blood pressure in the extremities.