These results were obtained by researchers after analyzing data from 760,000 participants who were followed for 36 years. They found that a slight increase in blood pressure, often called pre-hypertension, can lead to stroke. Even a slight increase in blood pressure can increase the risk of stroke by 66 per cent.
"This analysis provides confirmation of the evidence in many studies. This study confirms that a slight increase in blood pressure is important and has a major impact on stroke risk," said Dr Ralph Sacco of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, as reported by Healthy Living ( 12/03).
Previous research at Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, also showed that 20 per cent of strokes occur in people who have pre-hypertension. These results remained the same even though researchers took into account other factors such as high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking habits.
Dr John Volpi of the Houston Methodist Hospital in Texas recommends that people keep their blood pressure under control. Don't underestimate blood pressure that rises slowly, even if not often. Because it can have an impact on other things and can even trigger a stroke. Also, do a healthy lifestyle and eat nutritious foods to keep blood pressure stable.
