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Salt sensitivity in blacks. Salt intake and natriuretic substances
J R Sowers1, M B Zemel, P Zemel
1Division of Endocrinology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan.
Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979)
|November 1, 1988
Summary
Hypertension in Black individuals may involve impaired salt excretion. This study found decreased dopamine production in hypertensive Black subjects, suggesting a role in developing and maintaining high blood pressure.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Hypertension in Black populations is often linked to impaired renal salt excretion.
- Understanding the role of natriuretic substances in salt sensitivity is crucial for managing hypertension.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate differences in natriuretic substance generation between hypertensive and normotensive Black subjects.
- To explore the relationship between dietary salt intake and blood pressure regulation in these groups.
Main Methods:
- 14 normotensive and 11 hypertensive Black subjects were placed on low (40 mmol/day) and high (180 mmol/day) salt diets.
- Measurements included blood pressure, urinary sodium, dopamine, norepinephrine, plasma atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), aldosterone, and urinary prostaglandin E2 (PGE2).
Main Results:
- Both groups exhibited salt sensitivity, with increased mean arterial pressure on high salt intake.
- Hypertensive subjects showed significantly decreased urinary dopamine excretion compared to normotensive subjects.
- Plasma ANF levels increased with salt intake in hypertensive subjects, but not in normotensive subjects.
Conclusions:
- Salt sensitivity is present in both hypertensive and normotensive Black individuals.
- Reduced renal dopamine production may be a key factor in the pathogenesis of hypertension in Black populations.