A meta-analysis of prospective studies shows a clear association between blood pressure ≥120/80 mm Hg and stroke, with significantly increased risk even in the 120–129/80–84 mm Hg range.
Hypertension, defined as blood pressure (BP) ≥140/90 mm Hg, has long been established as a common and treatable risk factor for stroke. The association between lower BP ranges and stroke is less well-established. Investigators have now performed a meta-analysis of prospective, observational studies on the association between baseline prehypertension (BP 120–139/80–89 mm Hg) and subsequent stroke. To be eligible, studies had to follow patients for at least 1 year and report relative risks (RRs) adjusted for potential confounders, such as diabetes and smoking.
Of 19 eligible studies, 14 were judged to have good quality using standard criteria, and there was no evidence of publication bias. Prehypertension was present in 25% to 54% of participa…
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresSpeaker’s bureauGenentech
Grant / Research supportNational Institutes of Health/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke; Michael Goldberg Stroke Research Fund
Editorial boardsPLOS One; Scientific Reports
Leadership positions in professional societiesNeurocritical Care Society (Research Committee Member)
DisclosuresSpeaker’s bureauGenentech
Grant / Research supportNational Institutes of Health/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke; Michael Goldberg Stroke Research Fund
Editorial boardsPLOS One; Scientific Reports
Leadership positions in professional societiesNeurocritical Care Society (Research Committee Member)