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According to a recent study, hypertensive patients exhibited slightly higher blood pressure levels during winter, with a slight decrease in the control of systolic blood pressure during outpatient visits. The study was presented at a prominent scientific conference focused on recent advancements in basic and clinical research concerning high blood pressure, its connection to cardiac and kidney conditions, stroke, obesity, and genetics. The American Heart Association’s 2023 Statistical Update reveals that nearly half of all adults in the US suffer from high blood pressure. Previous research has established a seasonal variation in blood pressure, primarily in systolic blood pressure, which measures pressure in the blood vessels during heartbeats. This study aimed to ascertain if blood pressure control (defined as below 140/90 mm Hg for hypertensive patients) varied by season.
Lead author Robert B. Barrett, a software engineer at the American Medical Association, expressed surprise at the substantial difference in blood pressure control between winter and summer months, despite a smaller degree of systolic blood pressure variation compared to previous studies on seasonal blood pressure changes. He recommended individuals with hypertension or near-hypertensive values consider periodic blood pressure monitoring and adopt improved physical activity and dietary habits during winter to counteract potential adverse effects.
The researchers examined electronic health records of 60,676 adults receiving hypertension treatment from July 2018 to June 2023 across six healthcare centers, where each participant maintained their prescribed antihypertensive drug regimen. These centers, ranging from small federally funded nonprofit health centers to large academic medical centers, were primarily located in the Southeast and Midwest regions. Seasonal blood pressure readings were analyzed to evaluate variations in blood pressure control between winter (December to February) and summer (June to August) months, as part of a quality-improvement initiative supported by the American Medical Association for clinicians and healthcare centers. The participants had an average age of 62 years, with 52.3% identifying as white and 59.7% as female.
The analysis of health records revealed that, on average, systolic blood pressure increased by up to 1.7 mm Hg in winter compared to summer. Additionally, blood pressure control rates decreased by up to 5% during winter.
The authors suggested future research could include an examination of heart disease frequency and mortality rates during each season. Limitations of the study include incomplete health histories for participants in electronic health records and data collection solely from the treating institution.
