Fact Check: Can affirmations cure Hypertension?

Claim: A video on Instagram claims that positive affirmations can cure hypertension. According to the video, hypertension is considered a lifestyle condition and is no longer viewed as a disease. The speaker states that the causes of hypertension can be genetic, related to smoking, being overweight, work stress, and, most importantly, emotional reasons. The speaker mentions that, according to Louise Hay, individuals suffering from hypertension may have unresolved long-standing emotional problems. 

She adds that while medication can help keep blood pressure under control, regular exercise and pranayama (breathing exercises) are also beneficial. But she suggests that affirmations said with conviction can cure hypertension. The recommended practice involves placing a hand on the heart and joyously saying, "I release the past, and I am at peace." This affirmation should be repeated 21 times a day for 21 days. The speaker assures that this method will lead to a cure. The video can be accessed here. 

Fact Check: The claim is FALSE.

What is Hypertension?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hypertension, or high blood pressure, is defined as having a systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher and/or a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher. (1)

The WHO categorizes blood pressure readings as follows:

Normal: Systolic less than 120 mm Hg and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg.

Elevated: Systolic 120-129 mm Hg and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg.

Hypertension Stage 1: Systolic 130-139 mm Hg or diastolic 80-89 mm Hg.

Hypertension Stage 2: Systolic 140 mm Hg or higher or diastolic 90 mm Hg or higher.

Hypertension is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. It often has no symptoms and can go undiagnosed, therefore regular blood pressure monitoring is important. Proper management typically includes lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and medication when necessary.

Incidence of Hypertension

Hypertension is a significant contributor to premature deaths worldwide. An estimated 1.28 billion adults globally have hypertension, with the majority residing in low- and middle-income countries. (1) Alarmingly, 46% of these individuals are unaware they have the condition, and only 21% have it under control. (1)

In India, where cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality, about 220 million people live with hypertension. However, only a small fraction, 12%, successfully manage their blood pressure. (2)

How is hypertension treated?

According to the latest guidelines from the European Society of Hypertension (ESH), hypertension is managed primarily through a combination of lifestyle modifications and medication. (3) Initially, patients are advised to make lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthier diet. For example, the DASH diet- Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension is recommended. It emphasizes on the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products while reducing sodium, red meat, sweets, and sugary beverages to help lower blood pressure. Other recommendations include reducing salt intake, increasing physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, and quitting smoking.

Pharmacological treatments are introduced if these adjustments are insufficient to achieve target blood pressure levels. The medications used are based on individual patient characteristics and coexisting conditions. Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential to tailoring the treatment plan.

Can positive affirmations cure Hypertension?

The claim that positive affirmations can cure hypertension lacks scientific evidence and does not align with the medical understanding of how hypertension is treated and managed. While it is true that hypertension can be influenced by lifestyle factors and stress, but is recognized as a chronic medical condition that typically requires lifelong management through diet, exercise, lifestyle changes, and medication.

In a research article published in the JAMA network on chronic stress and the heart, Torpy JM, Lynm C, and Glass RM illustrate how chronic stress contributes to the development and exacerbation of hypertension. The study details the physiological effects of prolonged stress, notably increased heart rate and blood pressure, which, over time, can lead to serious cardiovascular complications. This connection highlights the importance of managing stress to prevent and control hypertension, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. (4)

While managing stress through methods like positive affirmations can be helpful in taking a holistic approach to well-being, it cannot cure hypertension alone. Comprehensive management, which includes dietary changes, regular exercise, medication, and lifestyle adjustments, is needed to manage hypertension. 

What do the experts say?

Speaking to the Medical Dialogues Fact Check team, Dr Manav Aggarwal, Interventional Cardiologist at Sanjeevan Hospital, New Delhi, emphasized the need for a multifaceted approach to managing hypertension. According to Dr Aggarwal, "While stress management techniques such as positive affirmations can play a supportive role in overall well-being, they are not a cure for hypertension. Hypertension is a complex condition influenced by various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Effective management typically includes medication, dietary adjustments, regular physical activity, and monitoring.  Affirmations can help reduce stress, a contributing factor, but they should not be considered a standalone treatment. Patients must follow a treatment plan under a doctor's guidance."

Dr. Prem Aggarwal, Cardiologist and Chairman of Sanjeevan Hospital, New Delhi, added, “The term "cure" implies that the condition can be completely and permanently eradicated. Hypertension is often called 'the silent killer' because it frequently does not exhibit clear symptoms until serious complications arise, such as heart attacks or strokes. It's important to dispel myths and avoid reliance on unproven methods like affirmation techniques. Instead, patients should adhere to evidence-based medical guidance to effectively manage their hypertension and prevent the potentially life-threatening complications associated with it. This claim is false and misleading."

Medical Dialogues Final Take:

No scientific evidence or medical consensus supports the claim that positive affirmations can cure hypertension. Hypertension or elevated blood pressure is a serious medical condition that significantly increases the risk of heart, brain, kidney, and other diseases. It requires a multifaceted approach to management, including lifestyle modifications, medication, and regular medical supervision.

Solely relying on affirmations, such as repeatedly stating, "I release the past, and I am at peace" 21 times for 21 days without following medical advice, cannot cure Hypertension. Depending upon positive affirmations without adhering to medically proven treatments can be risky and may lead to severe health complications.

Hence, this claim is FALSE.

Reference:

1. World Health Organization. (n.d.). Hypertension. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hypertension

2. World Health Organization. (n.d.). Hypertension. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/india/health-topics/hypertension

3. Mancia, Giuseppea,∗; Kreutz, Reinholdb,∗; Brunström, Mattiasc; Burnier, Micheld; Grassi, Guidoe; Januszewicz, Andrzejf; Muiesan, Maria Lorenzag; Tsioufis, Konstantinosh; Agabiti-Rosei, Enricoi; Algharably, Engi Abd Elhadyb; Azizi, Michelj,k; Benetos, Athanasel; Borghi, Claudiom; Hitij, Jana Brguljann; Cifkova, Renatao,p; Coca, Antonioq; Cornelissen, Veroniquer; Cruickshank, J. Kennedys; Cunha, Pedro G.t,u; Danser, A.H. Janv; Pinho, Rosa Maria dew; Delles, Christianx; Dominiczak, Anna F.y; Dorobantu, Mariaz; Doumas, Michalisaa; Fernández-Alfonso, María S.bb,cc; Halimi, Jean-Micheldd,ee,ff; Járai, Zoltángg; Jelaković, Bojanhh; Jordan, Jensii,jj; Kuznetsova, Tatianakk; Laurent, Stephanell; Lovic, Draganmm; Lurbe, Emparnn,oo,pp; Mahfoud, Felixqq,rr; Manolis, Athanasiosss; Miglinas, Mariustt,uu; Narkiewicz, Krzystofvv; Niiranen, Teemuww,xx; Palatini, Paoloyy; Parati, Gianfrancozz,aaa; Pathak, Atulbbb; Persu, Alexandreccc; Polonia, Jorgeddd; Redon, Josepoo,eee,fff; Sarafidis, Pantelisggg; Schmieder, Rolandhhh; Spronck, Bartiii; Stabouli, Stellajjj; Stergiou, Georgekkk; Taddei, Stefanolll; Thomopoulos, Costasmmm; Tomaszewski, Maciejnnn,ooo; Van de Borne, Philippeppp; Wanner, Christophqqq; Weber, Thomasrrr; Williams, Bryansss; Zhang, Zhen-Yuttt; Kjeldsen, Sverre E.uuu. 2023 ESH Guidelines for the management of arterial hypertension The Task Force for the management of arterial hypertension of the European Society of Hypertension: Endorsed by the International Society of Hypertension (ISH) and the European Renal Association (ERA). Journal of Hypertension 41(12):p 1874-2071, December 2023. | DOI: 10.1097/HJH.0000000000003480

4. Torpy JM, Lynm C, Glass RM. Chronic Stress and the Heart. JAMA. 2007;298(14):1722. doi:10.1001/jama.298.14.1722