(HealthDay News) — An estimated 6.7 percent of U.S. adults cannot use popular automatic blood pressure devices due to arm circumference, according to a research letter published online Sept. 5 in Hypertension to coincide with the American Heart Association Hypertension 2024 Scientific Sessions, held from Sept. 5 to 8 in Chicago.
Eileen Kaur, from Howard High School in Ellicott City, Maryland, and colleagues evaluated the cuff sizes in 10 popular blood pressure devices from Amazon’s Automatic Blood Pressure Category and quantified the coverage of arm circumference ranges among 13,826 adults participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2015 to 2020).
The researchers found that of the 10 evaluated devices, nine offered cuff sizes covering arm circumferences from 22 to 42 cm and one offered sizes from 22 to 40 cm. An estimated 6.7 percent of U.S. adults (corresponding to 17.3 million adults) could not use these devices “as is” due to arm circumferences <22 cm (0.3 percent [0.8 million], including 32.3 percent with hypertension) or >42 cm (6.4 percent [16.5 million], including 67.3 percent with hypertension). Black adults (11.8 percent) had a higher proportion not covered by these devices than other racial/ethnic groups (6.6, 5.2, and 1.8 percent for White, Hispanic, and Asian adults, respectively). A similar proportion of women (6.9 percent) and men (6.6 percent) were not eligible for these devices.
“To increase equity, manufacturers should prioritize the development and affordable sale of blood pressure measuring devices that accommodate arm circumferences greater than 42 centimeters, and health care professionals should measure patients’ arm circumferences to help them select an appropriate cuff size when purchasing a home blood pressure device,” senior author Kunihiro Matsushita, M.D., Ph.D., from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore, said in a statement.
One author disclosed ties to Fukuda Denshi.
How do automatic blood pressure devices work?
Automatic blood pressure monitors, commonly found in pharmacies and homes, are designed to make measuring blood pressure convenient and accessible. While they may seem simple, these devices employ sophisticated technology to provide accurate readings.
A typical automatic blood pressure monitor consists of an inflatable cuff, an oscillometric sensor, a microprocessor, and a display. The cuff wraps around the upper arm and is inflated to a predetermined pressure. Inside the cuff, an oscillometric sensor detects changes in blood flow as the cuff deflates. The microprocessor analyzes the sensor data to determine systolic and diastolic blood pressure, which are then displayed on the screen.
The measurement process begins with the inflation of the cuff to a pressure higher than the expected systolic blood pressure. As the cuff slowly deflates, the sensor detects the rhythmic pulsations of blood flow. The microprocessor calculates the systolic and diastolic pressures based on the timing and strength of these pulsations.
Several factors can affect the accuracy of automatic blood pressure readings. Proper cuff fit, arm position, movement during the measurement process, medication use, and device calibration are all important considerations.
How does high blood pressure affect Black Americans?
Black Americans have a disproportionately higher risk of developing high blood pressure compared to other racial groups. This disparity is influenced by a combination of genetic, lifestyle, socioeconomic, and psychological factors.
Genetics play a role in the increased risk of high blood pressure among Black Americans. Certain genetic variations may predispose individuals to higher blood pressure levels. Lifestyle factors, such as diet, physical activity, and stress, can also contribute to the development and progression of high blood pressure. Socioeconomic disparities, including limited access to healthcare, healthy food options, and safe neighborhoods, can exacerbate the problem. Additionally, the cumulative effects of discrimination and stress can have a significant impact on health, including blood pressure.
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Black Americans with high blood pressure are more likely to experience serious health complications and premature death. Effective management strategies for high blood pressure include lifestyle modifications, medication, regular monitoring, and addressing social determinants of health.
By understanding the mechanisms behind automatic blood pressure devices and the specific challenges faced by Black Americans with high blood pressure, healthcare providers can offer more effective prevention and management strategies.
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