Association and causality between triglycerides and hypertension: evidence from NHANES 2007-2018 and two-sample...

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Health
• Metabolic Syndrome
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Hypertension is a significant global health concern.
• Elevated triglyceride levels may independently contribute to hypertension risk.
• Previous studies on this association are limited, especially across diverse populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between triglyceride levels and hypertension prevalence using NHANES data.
• To explore potential nonlinear relationships and causal links.
• To inform hypertension prevention and management strategies.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data (2007-2018) from adults aged 20+.
• Weighted multivariable logistic regression and restricted cubic splines (RCS) for association analysis.
• Two-sample Mendelian randomization (TSMR) analysis to assess causality.

Main Results:

• A significant positive association was found between triglyceride levels and hypertension prevalence (OR: 1.002, 95% CI: 1.001-1.003).
• RCS analysis confirmed a nonlinear positive association, with significant interaction by race.
• Mendelian randomization supported a causal effect of elevated triglycerides on hypertension risk.

Conclusions:

• Elevated triglyceride levels are significantly associated with increased hypertension prevalence.
• Lipid management may play a vital role in hypertension prevention strategies.
• Further research into race-specific interactions is warranted.