What genetic factors cause hypertension?
The most-studied genetic association in essential hypertension is with genes involved in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system is a step-wise process that produces hormones to regulate blood pressure and the balance of fluids and salts in the body.
How much of hypertension is genetic?
The heritable component of blood pressure has been documented in familial and twin studies suggesting that 30%-50% of the variance of blood pressure readings are attributable to genetic heritability and about 50% to environmental factors.
Can genetic hypertension be cured?
Some causes can’t be prevented, like genetics and age. High blood pressure often runs in families. Genetic risk is complex, probably resulting from a combination of harmful mutations in risk genes and silencing of protective genes. There is nothing we can do to change our genetics, just as we can’t stop aging.
How can you prevent genetic hypertension?
How can I prevent high blood pressure?
- Eating a healthy diet. To help manage your blood pressure, you should limit the amount of sodium (salt) that you eat and increase the amount of potassium in your diet.
- Getting regular exercise.
- Being at a healthy weight.
- Limiting alcohol.
- Not smoking.
- Managing stress.
Who is affected by hypertension?
An estimated 1.13 billion people worldwide have hypertension, most (two-thirds) living in low- and middle-income countries. In 2015, 1 in 4 men and 1 in 5 women had hypertension. Fewer than 1 in 5 people with hypertension have the problem under control. Hypertension is a major cause of premature death worldwide.
How can you reduce hypertension?
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- Lose extra pounds and watch your waistline. Blood pressure often increases as weight increases.
- Exercise regularly.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Reduce sodium in your diet.
- Limit the amount of alcohol you drink.
- Quit smoking.
- Cut back on caffeine.
- Reduce your stress.