There is substantial evidence indicating that hypertension (blood pressure equal to or above 140/90) increases stroke risk, but a new study suggests that pre-hypertension (blood pressure above 120/80 but below 140/90) may be associated with an increased risk of stroke as well.
The study used records from over 500,000 adults who participated in blood pressure and stroke related studies. Researchers discovered that those who were pre-hypertensive had a 55% increased risk of stroke. Those with blood pressure in 130-139 range systolic were 79% more likely to suffer from a stroke …

Could the simple potato have the power to lower blood pressure?
Potatoes have developed an unfair reputation of being high-starch and full of empty calories, but that is not the case. In reality an average sized potato (approximately 5.3 oz) including its skin only has 110 calories, no fat and contains 45% of the recommend vitamin C needed daily, as well as 620 mg of potassium comparable to bananas, trace amounts of thiamin, riboflavin, folate, magnesium, phosphorous, iron and zinc. They also have high levels of antioxidants. And new research has …

It is not too surprising that the financial hardships that have hit the U.S. are effecting people’s health. A recent study tied an increase in the foreclosure rate to an increase in health problems.
A study published by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that an increase of 100 foreclosures was correlated to a 7.2% increase in emergency room visits and hospitalizations for hypertension, 8.1% increase for diabetes, 12% more anxiety related visits and 39% more suicide attempts for those ages 20-49.
For more information see:
“Tying Health Problems to Rise …

A new study involving over 40,000 men suggests that a higher consumption of processed meats may be linked to a higher risk of stroke.

Those with high blood pressure may want to think twice before taking ibuprofen regularly- new research indicates that chronic NSAID users with hypertension and coronary artery disease are at risk of an increased risk of adverse events.