"Environmental hypertensionology" the effects of environmental factors on blood pressure in clinical practice and research

Abstract

Blood pressure (BP) is affected by many environmental factors including ambient temperature, altitude, latitude, noise, and air pollutants. Given their pervasiveness, it is plausible that such factors may also have an impact on hypertension prevalence and control rates. Health care providers should be aware that the environment can play a significant role in altering BP. Although not among the established modifiable risk factors (eg, obesity) for hypertension, reducing exposures when pertinent should be considered to prevent or control hypertension. The authors provide a concise review of the evidence linking diverse environmental factors with BP and suggest an approach for incorporating this knowledge into clinical practice. The authors propose using the term environmental hypertensionology to refer to the study of the effects of environmental factors on BP in clinical and research settings.

Figure FIGURE

Suggested algorithm for incorporating “environmental hypertensionology” into clinical practice. BP indicates blood pressure; OTC, over‐the‐counter; PM, particulate matter; SHS, secondhand smoke.