The third generation research by the Framingham Heart Study (FHS) is on its way to identify the genes that contribute to good health and development of heart disease. The study will also develop a new imaging test that can detect early stages of chol
esterol formation (atheroscelorosis).
Most of the current knowledge about the relationship among diet, exercise, cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, stroke and heart attack comes from the FHS. Framingham is a small town near Boston in the United States of America. A cardio-vascular study was taken up here in 1948. Some of the major discoveries of FHS are: Cigarette smoking increases the risk of heart disease (1960), high blood pressure increases risk of heart attack (1961) and high BP increaes risk of stroke (1970).
Every year, May 17 is observed as World Hypertension Day. The theme of this year is ‘healthy diet, healthy blood pressure.’
Under diagnosed
High BP, unfortunately, is not only under-diagnosed but also under-treated. ‘Target BP’ is not achieved by many physicians. Studies have shown dramatic results even in a small decrease of BP. In 2002, it was estimated that 972 million people had hypertension worldwide. The number is expected to rise to 1.56 billion by 2025. The increase will be due to an aging population and rapid growth in rates of obesity.
Controlling blood pressure
BP control means protection against heart attack, stroke and kidney failure. Increased exercise and reduced calories and better use of medication will lead to better control of hypertension.
Non-drug options are being investigated. One of the options is Rhoes Hypertension Therapy which uses the body’s natural blood pressure regulation system to control BP.
This includes a small pulse generator implanted under the collar bone. A physician can non-invasively regulate the activation energy from the generator. The system electronically activates baroreflex that sends signals to the brain suggesting BP increase. The brain then sends neutral signals to various parts of the body leading to reduction in BP.
Vaccination is a simpler option available for the patients. The patient needs to take a few injections in the beginning and may be a booster dose in six months or so. There is no need for oral drug intake every day. Research is still on to find a suitable vaccine.
DR. A. MATHAVAN,
(Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, Madurai)
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