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In a recently published study, researchers have discovered a potential method for the early detection of high blood pressure. This test, a more sensitive version of one already used to detect damage caused to cardiac muscles following heart attack, could be used to diagnose hypertension and other cardiac conditions before they fully develop. With earlier diagnosis being made possible, many lives could be saved from this silent killer and leading cause of death in the United States.
The test works by detecting elevated levels of troponin T, a protein released by injured heart cells, but at levels much lower than what could be detected by a standard blood pressure machine. Researchers found that participants who had this slight elevation in troponin T were more likely to develop hypertension in the years following. Additionally, this method of testing could also help to identify those at risk of developing other cardiac conditions commonly caused by untreated hypertension, like left ventricular hypertrophy, and could help clinicians diagnose and prevent other conditions like kidney and eye damage at the onset of hypertension.
This new test, which is already being used across Europe, is also relatively inexpensive. Researchers predict its cost to fall somewhere between $10 and $20. With the version already used to detect heart damage considered a gold-standard in the medical field, there is much hope for success with this method of detection.
When asked about these findings, lead investigator Bill McEvoy, M.B.B.Ch., M.H.S., assistant professor of medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine said:
“Identifying those at risk for hypertension as well as those in the earliest stages of the disease would allow us to intervene much sooner, either with lifestyle changes or medication, before the condition develops fully and has had a chance to damage organs.”
NextGen Nutritionals, a leader in the natural health and wellness community, is optimistic about the potential of this test. When asked to share their view on the topic, a representative for the company said “With so many lives lost to a disease that can easily prevented, anything that can be done to stop it in its tracks sooner than later is considered a win in our book. And, with such a low price tag, it would be accessible to American citizens from all walks of life.”
Those interested in learning more about this new method of testing are invited to visit http://www.nextgennutritionals.com/uncategorized/early-detection-of-hypertension.
Release ID: 92003