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Underweight? High Blood Pressure Poses New Heart Risk
11 Nov
Summary
- Thinness combined with high blood pressure is a high-risk group in Asia.
- This risk group faces increased cardiovascular events like heart attacks.
- Nutritional support and muscle strengthening may aid underweight patients.
A new study indicates that individuals who are underweight yet have elevated blood pressure or hypertension represent a high-risk subgroup, especially in Asian populations. This research, originating from Japan, reveals a connection between being underweight and hypertension, leading to a greater risk of major adverse cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. The study specifically noted higher risks among women and adults aged 40 and above.
This discovery holds particular relevance for India, where a substantial portion of the adult population is underweight. Current prevention strategies for hypertension primarily target obesity. However, for underweight individuals with high blood pressure, additional assessments for malnutrition, low muscle mass, and underlying chronic diseases are recommended. Management might involve nutritional support, resistance exercises, and individualized blood pressure control, considering factors like frailty and potential symptoms such as dizziness.
Previous research has noted links between underweight status and cardiovascular issues, but the role of high blood pressure in this context was less understood. The study analyzed data from over 6.2 million adults in Japan from January 2005 to October 2023, excluding those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
