TheDigger Intelligence Unit
Aiming for a systolic blood pressure below 120 mm Hg could significantly increase the number of lives saved and reduce cardiovascular events, a new study reports after analysing real-world risks and costs.
Researchers at Mass General Brigham analysed large datasets and used simulation models to compare lifetime health outcomes at different treatment thresholds.
In the Annals of Internal Medicine, they reported that the <120 mm Hg target prevented more cardiovascular events than the <130 mm Hg or <140 mm Hg targets.
Intensive treatment raises the risk of side effects, such as kidney injury, falls, and hypotension; however, the study concludes that the benefits outweigh the risks.
The researchers also determined that the lower target stays cost-effective, with an estimated $42,000 per quality-adjusted life-year gained—a standard measure of healthcare value.
Lead author Karen Smith said the results should give patients at high cardiovascular risk and their doctors more confidence in pursuing aggressive blood pressure control.
“Our findings suggest the intensive <120 mm Hg target prevents more cardiovascular events and provides good value, even when measurements aren’t perfect,” she noted.
This research shows that tighter blood pressure control offers both a scientifically backed and pragmatic strategy—providing a clear path forward in the fight against cardiovascular disease, the world’s top cause of death.
