Hypertension research links masked blood pressure to fall risks and treatment gaps

New research highlights significant challenges in managing hypertension and its associated risks. A study presented at the American Heart Association’s Hypertension Scientific Sessions 2026 found that adults over 78 with masked high blood pressure—those with normal readings in a clinic but elevated readings at home—face a 70% higher risk of falls compared to those with sustained high blood pressure. Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center emphasized that home monitoring is a critical tool for identifying these hidden risks in the elderly.

Separately, an analysis led by Oxford researchers involving 1.4 million adults in England revealed major gaps in blood pressure control. The study, published in BMJ Public Health, found that 50% of participants receiving medication still had readings above the target threshold. Additionally, 59% of those with hypertension had never been diagnosed or treated. The findings suggest that age significantly impacts prevalence, affecting 71% of adults aged 80 and above, and underscore the need for more proactive screening and ongoing reviews of treatment efficacy.