Publication:

Inter arm systolic blood pressure difference is associated with a high prevalence of cardio vascular diseases

Background Blood pressure (BP) recordings often differ between arms. This study is aimed to observe the presence of inter-arm blood pressure difference and association with hypertension or diabetes. The objective of the study was to establish the prevalence of an inter-arm blood pressure difference and explore its association with obesity and cardiovascular disorder.

Methods A cross-sectional study conducted at King George’s Medical College, Lucknow, India among 100 first year MBBS students. After taking verbal consent the age, height, weight, waist circumference, hip circumference and family history of hypertension or diabetes were recorded.

Results The systolic blood pressure on right arm was 118.8±11.5 mmHg and 11.7±7.72 mmHg left arm. Result significantly showed higher mean systolic blood pressure on right arm. There were 54, 17 and 29 participants with inter-arm systolic blood pressure difference of 30). Out of 100 subjects, 11 subject having inter-arm systolic blood pressure difference ≥10 mmHg was associated with a family history of diabetes or hypertension.

Conclusions Presence of inter-arm blood pressure difference with having family history of hypertension or diabetes is more susceptible to develop cardiovascular disorder in future.