Analysis of 3,022 primary care patients established that five blood pressure measurements can reliably detect visit-to-visit variability patterns that predict cardiovascular disease risk. The study identified specific thresholds: systolic variability above 19 mmHg standard deviation, 14% coefficient of variation, or 15 mmHg average real variability significantly increased CVD risk, as did diastolic thresholds of 11 mmHg, 12%, and 11 mmHg respectively. This finding addresses a practical clinical challenge. While blood pressure variability between visits has emerged as an independent cardiovascular risk factor beyond average blood pressure levels, most primary care settings lack standardized protocols for measuring it. The research suggests that routine clinical data—just five BP readings over time—can identify high-risk patients who might benefit from more intensive monitoring or intervention. However, this preprint study awaits peer review, and several limitations warrant consideration. The cohort was relatively young (under 55) and geographically restricted to southwestern Sydney, potentially limiting generalizability. The observational design cannot establish causation, and the optimal timing interval between measurements remains unclear. While confirmatory of BP variability's predictive value, the practical implementation of these thresholds in diverse healthcare systems requires validation.
Five Blood Pressure Readings Identify Cardiovascular Risk Thresholds
📄 Based on research published in medRxiv preprint
Read the original research →⚠️ This is a preprint — it has not yet been peer-reviewed. Results should be interpreted with caution and may change following peer review.
For informational, non-clinical use. Synthesized analysis of published research — may contain errors. Not medical advice. Consult original sources and your physician.