Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026
07:25
Assessing Murine Resistance Artery Function Using Pressure Myography
Published on: June 7, 2013
Racial differences in blood pressure control: potential explanatory factors
Hayden B Bosworth1, Tara Dudley, Maren K Olsen
1Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA. hboswort@acpub.duke.edu
The American Journal of Medicine
|January 25, 2006
Summary
African Americans experienced poorer blood pressure control and medication adherence compared to whites. Interventions should consider race to improve hypertension management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Health
- Health Disparities
- Hypertension Management
Background:
- Poor blood pressure control is a significant issue, especially in African Americans, leading to cardiovascular problems.
- Racial disparities in hypertension control persist despite access to healthcare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore antihypertensive medication adherence and other factors contributing to racial differences in blood pressure control.
- To identify key determinants of inadequate blood pressure control among African Americans.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of baseline data from the Veteran's Study to Improve The Control of Hypertension randomized controlled trial.
- Examination of clinical, demographic, and psychosocial factors influencing blood pressure control in African American and white patients.
Main Results:
- African Americans showed higher rates of inadequate blood pressure control (63% vs. 50%) and medication nonadherence.
- Factors such as functional illiteracy and family history of hypertension were more prevalent in African Americans.
- Perception of hypertension seriousness and experiencing urination side effects were also higher in African Americans.
Conclusions:
- Despite considering over 20 factors, African Americans had lower blood pressure control.
- Interventions to improve medication adherence must be race-conscious.
- Addressing patient-reported nonadherence can improve adherence and blood pressure control.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Blood Pressure
Blood pressure (BP) is the pressure or force of blood exerted on the artery's walls as it circulates through the body. It is essential for maintaining blood flow throughout the body.
The average BP in an adult is typically around 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). In this measurement, the numerator (120) indicates the systolic pressure, which is the pressure in the arteries during the contraction of the heart's ventricles as blood is expelled. The denominator (80) represents the diastolic...
The average BP in an adult is typically around 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). In this measurement, the numerator (120) indicates the systolic pressure, which is the pressure in the arteries during the contraction of the heart's ventricles as blood is expelled. The denominator (80) represents the diastolic...
01:28Factors affecting Blood pressure
Several physiological and lifestyle factors influence blood pressure (BP). Understanding these factors is crucial as they are significant in patient education and blood pressure management.
Physiological Factors:
Physiological Factors:
01:28Special considerations while measuring blood pressure
When assessing blood pressure (BP), healthcare professionals must consider various factors and potential unexpected outcomes to ensure accurate readings and provide proper patient care. Adhering to these guidelines is essential to achieving the most reliable results.
Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.
Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.
01:18Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure
Hypertension, the most common cardiovascular disease, is diagnosed through repeated measurements of elevated blood pressure. Its risks, including damage to the kidney, heart, and brain, are directly proportional to blood pressure levels. Starting from 115/75 mm Hg, the risk of cardiovascular disease doubles with each increment of 20/10 mm Hg. The diagnosis relies on blood pressure measurements, not on patient symptoms, as hypertension is often asymptomatic until end-organ damage is imminent or...
01:24Blood Pressure
The movement of blood in a human body, commonly referred to as blood flow, is determined by the volume of blood that traverses a certain section of the bodily system per unit time. It is the rhythmic contraction of the heart's ventricles that primarily instigates this movement. As the ventricles contract, blood is forced into the prominent arteries, which then flow from areas of greater pressure to lower pressure areas. This movement continues into smaller arteries and arterioles and...
01:29Hypertension II: Pathophysiology
Hypertension is a chronic condition in which the blood's force against artery walls is excessively high, posing risks such as heart disease. The condition's underlying mechanisms involve complex interactions among the cardiovascular, kidney, and autonomic nervous systems.Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS): This system significantly influences blood pressure regulation. When blood pressure decreases, the kidneys secrete renin. This enzyme transforms angiotensinogen, a plasma protein,...