Gender Differences In Hypertension Control Widen With Advancing Age: MESA

They used generalized linear mixed-effects models with a binomial function to calculate the odds of hypertension control by age group (45–64,75–74, 75+) at a given exam and by sex while accounting for the intra-individual correlation, and adjustment for demographics, co-morbidities, smoking, alcohol use, education and site among participants with hypertension at any of the first five exams.

Key findings of the study were:

♦ Upon analysis, the researchers found that the average SBP was lower while the average DBP was higher among men vs women at each exam.

♦ They noted that the adjusted odds ratios of hypertension control among men vs women were

• 0.89 for age 45–64 years,
• 1.37 for age 65–74 years and,
• 2.08 for age 75+ years.

♦ When hypertension control was determined as < 130/80 mmHg, they noted that the adjusted odds of hypertension control among men vs women was

• 0.60 at age 45–64 years,
• 1.1 at age 65–74 years and
• 1.71 at age 75+ years.

The study findings suggest that after age 65 years, women are less likely than men to have controlled hypertension and sex differences in hypertension control were independent of obesity and diabetes.

The authors concluded, "After age 65 years, hypertension control rates are lower among women vs men and these sex differences widen with advancing age. More research is needed to determine the reasons for these age and sex differences in hypertension control. Quality improvement programs for hypertension control should include targeted interventions for older women to reduce their risk for cardiovascular disease and mortality."

For further information:

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajpc.2021.100230