Innovative Blood Pressure Measurement Method Offers Hope for Many

A groundbreaking technique for measuring blood pressure at the ankle presents a potential solution for individuals unable to undergo traditional arm blood pressure assessments. Recent research from the University of Exeter Medical School, published in BMJ Open, has analyzed data from over 33,000 participants to develop a personalized predictive model that enhances the accuracy of estimating arm blood pressure based on ankle readings.

High blood pressure, which affects more than one billion people worldwide, significantly increases the risk of severe health problems, including cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and renal diseases. Consequently, precise measurement and interpretation of blood pressure readings are essential. While arm measurements are the standard, they may not be feasible for everyone due to disabilities, limb loss, or complications from medical conditions such as strokes.

The research indicates that ankle measurements, while generally higher than those taken from the arm, can be effectively utilized with the newly developed model. This is crucial for individuals who cannot have their blood pressure taken from their arms, thus avoiding potential misdiagnoses stemming from reliance solely on arm measurements.

Led by Professor Chris Clark, the study reveals that the innovative approach can yield more accurate blood pressure readings for approximately two percent more individuals. Although this figure may seem modest, it translates to a significant number given the prevalence of high blood pressure, which affects about one-third of adults, and over half of those over 60. In England alone, the NHS Health Check Program identifies about 38,000 new cases each year, suggesting that this two percent improvement could lead to around 750 fewer misdiagnoses annually in England and potentially tens of thousands worldwide.

The research team utilized statistical modeling on data from 33,710 participants, with a mean age of 58 years and 45% identifying as female, to elucidate the relationship between arm and ankle blood pressures. This model not only predicts arm blood pressure from ankle measurements but also estimates important health outcomes, including the risk of heart attacks.

This advancement has the potential to reduce health disparities by offering accurate blood pressure assessments for those unable to accurately measure pressure via the arm. In the UK, an estimated 10,000 adults live with upper limb loss, while approximately 75% of the nation's 1.3 million stroke survivors experience upper limb dysfunction, complicating standard blood pressure assessments.

Juliet Bouverie OBE, Chief Executive of the Stroke Association, highlighted the importance of this research, noting that every five minutes, someone in the UK experiences a stroke, with high blood pressure being a contributing factor for nearly half of these cases. Many stroke survivors face anxiety about the risk of subsequent strokes, and the ability to obtain accurate ankle blood pressure readings not only aids in preventing further strokes but also alleviates the concerns of those already affected.

Professor Kevin Munro, Director of the NIHR's Research for Patient Benefit Program, emphasized that this study offers an innovative solution to a critical challenge, enabling effective blood pressure monitoring for individuals who cannot use the upper arm. Continuous monitoring of blood pressure is essential for maintaining health, and this research is poised to enhance the identification and treatment of high blood pressure across a broader population.

The implications of this research are profound, providing hope for improved health outcomes for those who previously faced barriers to accurate blood pressure measurement. As healthcare continues to evolve, such advancements play a crucial role in ensuring equitable access to vital health monitoring tools.