People with higher readings were 3.5 times more likely to face heart conditions years down the line.
By Samantha Leathers
A recent study has revealed true extent of high blood pressure’s impact on our bodies and its connection to numerous conditions and diseases. Researchers also found that blood pressure readings during young adulthood could heighten the risk of these conditions later in life.
Adults who experienced high blood pressure throughout their thirties faced an increased risk of heart disease, stroke or kidney disease in midlife, beyond the age of 40. Furthermore, people with a systolic reading just 10mmHg higher than their peers had a 27% greater risk of heart disease and a 22% greater risk of kidney disease after a decade.
Those with the highest systolic readings were 3.5 times more likely to develop a heart condition compared to those with the lowest readings. Participants whose diastolic blood pressure was 5mmHg higher than their peers over 10 years had a 20% increased risk of heart disease and a 16% increased risk of kidney disease.
The ideal blood pressure is 120mmHg/80mmHg, with the upper figure representing systolic and the lower figure representing diastolic. According to the NHS, high blood pressure is typically measured at around 140/90 in clinical settings or 135/85 if you’re monitoring readings at home.
This research demonstrated that a reading of just 130/85 throughout a person’s early adulthood could be sufficient to increase their risk of heart and kidney disease.
“Our study’s findings show that blood pressure levels in early adulthood are important even if short-term risk appears low. Long-term exposure to higher blood pressure from early life may accumulate damage over time, increasing the risk of heart and kidney disease in midlife.” said Hokyou Lee, associate professor of preventive medicine at Yonsei University College of Medicine in Seoul.
He continued: “Maintaining optimal blood pressure is a concern for every individual, at every age. Early prevention, diagnosis, monitoring and treatment, if needed, are investments in future heart and kidney health.
“Timely treatment of elevated blood pressure is essential to reduce the effects of years of exposure, which underscores the importance of monitoring and managing blood pressure as soon as a patient has elevated blood pressure levels.”
The South Korean research examined data from nearly 300,000 adults and was presented at the American Heart Association’s EPI|Lifestyle Scientific Sessions 2026. It has not yet undergone peer review and the results remain preliminary at this stage.
The findings were consistent across both men and women. Participants were tracked from age 30 to 50 and had no previous history of heart or kidney disease before turning 40.
When high blood pressure goes untreated, it can place strain on your blood vessels, heart and other vital organs. This is known to heighten your risk of strokes, vascular dementia and heart failure. There are numerous lifestyle factors that can affect your blood pressure levels. These include maintaining a nutritious diet, engaging in regular physical activity and keeping your weight within a healthy range.
However, according to the NHS there are certain risk factors for elevated blood pressure remain beyond our control, such as age, ethnic background or family history. A doctor may prescribe medication if your blood pressure remains significantly elevated, lifestyle modifications have proven ineffective, or if you face heightened risk of complications from hypertension.
English residents aged over 40 can receive complimentary blood pressure checks at the majority of pharmacies. For those under 40, your GP practice may provide this service, as might workplace occupational health departments. High street retailers such as Boots may also offer testing facilities.
