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Increase in haematocrit in borderline hypertensive men
R W Siebers1, J M Carter, T J Maling
1Department of Medicine, Wellington School of Medicine, New Zealand.
Summary
Men with borderline hypertension show increased hematocrit (Hct), a blood component that may raise blood pressure. This finding suggests Hct could contribute to elevated arterial pressure in borderline hypertensive individuals.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Hematology
Background:
- Established hypertension is associated with increased hematocrit (Hct).
- The role of Hct in borderline hypertension (BHT) is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if increased Hct is present in untreated BHT men.
- To determine the relationship between Hct and mean arterial pressure in BHT men.
Main Methods:
- Hematologic parameters were measured in untreated BHT men and age/weight-matched normotensive men.
- Statistical analysis was performed to compare Hct levels and assess correlations.
Main Results:
- BHT men exhibited significantly higher Hct (mean 0.46) compared to normotensive men (mean 0.43).
- A significant positive correlation was found between Hct and mean arterial pressure in BHT men (r = 0.67, P = 0.036), independent of body weight.
Conclusions:
- Increased Hct is evident in borderline hypertension.
- The correlation between Hct and blood pressure supports the hypothesis that elevated Hct contributes to increased blood viscosity and arterial pressure.