Blood pressure drugs dramatically reduce stroke and mortality in very old
An international trial looking at the benefits of giving blood pressure lowering medication to elderly patients has been terminated early, after researchers observed dramatic reductions in the overall mortality rate of those receiving treatment.
The preliminary results from the trial suggest that lowering blood pressure in the over 80s significantly reduces both stroke and mortality.
Professor Stephen Harrap, president of the High Blood Pressure Research Council of Australia, explains that “it was not clear prior to the study whether the over 80s would benefit from blood pressure lowering medication in the same way as younger people”.
“The results are great news for people in this age group because they suggest that where they have high blood pressure, such treatment can cut their chances of having a stroke or dying.”
