Research Highlights:
A study of nearly 300 thousand adults in South Korea found that individuals with higher blood pressure (≥120 mm Hg/80 mm Hg) for up to 10 years during young adulthood (ages 30 and 40 were more likely to develop heart disease and…
Research indicates that elevated blood pressure during young adulthood is linked to a higher risk of heart and kidney disease later in life. A long term study followed nearly 4,700 individuals from ages 18 through 30 up to ages 40 through 50.
The study found that systolic blood pressure, the top number, above 120 mmHg in young adults, and diastolic blood pressure, the bottom number, above 80 mmHg, were associated with an increased likelihood of developing heart and kidney issues after age 40. Specifically, each 10 mmHg increase in systolic blood pressure and each 5 mmHg increase in diastolic blood pressure above normal levels raised the risk.
Problems identified included an enlarged left ventricle of the heart, thickening of the heart muscle, and reduced kidney function. These associations held true even after accounting for other factors like smoking, diabetes, and cholesterol levels.
The findings emphasize the importance of maintaining optimal blood pressure from a young age to prevent cardiovascular and kidney problems later on. This involves regular blood pressure monitoring starting at age 18 and adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as a nutritious diet, consistent exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight. Medical intervention may also be necessary in some cases.
https://newsroom.heart.org/news/higher-blood-pressure-during-young-adulthood-linked-to-heart-kidney-disease-after-age-40
