Relying on blood pressure medication alone may not prevent heart attacks. Lifestyle changes and a healthy diet along with medication may be a better approach, research suggests.
Blood pressure tests measure systolic pressure as the heart beats and pumps blood over diastolic pressure, which detects the heart at rest. Normal blood pressure is widely accepted to be 120/80, and high blood pressure could be a warning sign for heart attack risk.
Dr. Crandall: Normal Blood Pressure Linked to Key Discovery
An analysis of the INVEST study, published in 2010, found no difference in cardiovascular risks between patients whose systolic blood pressure was tightly controlled and those who had normal care,
Medscape reports.
The study included 22,576 subjects age 50 and older. Participants had diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure, and they were examined over an eight-year period. They were given blood pressure medication, either calcium channel blockers or beta blockers. Subjects were separated into three groups: patients in an uncontrolled group with systolic blood pressure of 140 or above, those in a tight control group with systolic pressure below 130, and those in a usual control group with systolic pressure between 130 and 140.
Alert: Blood Pressure Information Your Doctor Hasn't Told You
Although people in the usual control group had better cardiovascular outcomes than those in the uncontrolled group, there was little difference between the usual control and tight control groups as far as outcomes.
The study’s authors said instead of focusing on trying to get blood pressure below a 130 systolic measurement, it would be better to maintain a rate between 130 and 139 while also focusing on healthy eating, weight loss, and other lifestyle factors, the study’s authors
reported in the July 7, 2010, issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Blood pressure medication helps to maintain a healthy blood pressure range according to a patient’s particular condition. Steps to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attack should also include a heart-healthy diet, regular physical activity and limiting alcohol intake,
says the American Heart Association.
Special: Blood Pressure Breakthrough From Nobel-Winning Scientist
© 2026 Newsmax. All rights reserved.