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Walking as an intervention to reduce blood pressure in adults with hypertension: recommendations and implications for
Mohamed Mansoor1, Oliver Hamer2, Kirishan Sandrasekar1
1NHS Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Lancashire, UK.
Insights
Walking may be an effective non-pharmacological intervention for reducing high blood pressure (hypertension). This systematic review appraises evidence on whether regular walking can lower blood pressure, offering a potential lifestyle change to mitigate cardiovascular and stroke risks.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Public Health
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Hypertension impacts over 1.39 billion adults globally, defined as systolic blood pressure >140mmHg.
- Elevated blood pressure significantly increases risks for cardiovascular events and stroke.
- Pharmacological treatments exist but may cause side effects, prompting interest in lifestyle interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically appraise a systematic review evaluating the efficacy of walking in reducing blood pressure.
- To assess the potential of walking as a non-pharmacological strategy for hypertension management.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review appraisal.
- Analysis of studies investigating the impact of walking on blood pressure levels.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests that walking interventions can lead to reductions in blood pressure.
- The effectiveness may vary based on walking protocols (frequency, intensity, duration).
Conclusions:
- Walking presents a viable, accessible, and non-pharmacological approach to help manage and lower hypertension.
- Incorporating regular walking into lifestyle modifications may mitigate risks associated with high blood pressure.
Abstract:
Hypertension affects more than 1 in 4 adults, equating to around 1.39 billion people worldwide. Hypertension is defined as an elevation in systolic blood pressure above 140mmHg. This can increase cardiovascular and stroke risk. By lowering blood pressure, individuals can mitigate an increased risk of stroke and end-organ damage. While medications have proven beneficial to lowering blood pressure, they do have the potential for side effects. Other non-pharmacological lifestyle and dietary changes exist. This article critically appraises a systematic review which assesses whether walking can reduce blood pressure.
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