Seventy-four million Americans are diagnosed with having high blood pressure (HBP), also known as hypertension. African American women have the highest rates of HBP and obesity than any other group in the U.S. African American girls have the highest rate of obesity compared to children of other racial groups and increased rates of HBP. In fact, 44% of African American women suffer from HBP and 41.5% are considered obese. These rates are compared to 31% of Caucasian women who have HBP and 19.3% who are obese. Genetic factors also play a role in developing HBP and variation in body mass index (BMI). Therefore, to reduce these disparities among African American females, an examination of the early detection of genes and environmental factors is key.
This study examined two important risk factors for high blood pressure - genetic heredity and BMI. The interaction between genes and BMI was observed in two generations of African American females. If a link is found between genes and BMI, then this will add to the existing knowledge of why African American women suffer at a greater rate and severity from HBP.
The average BMI for mothers and their offspring were similar with both groups being in the overweight category. All of the parents and none of their children had been diagnosed with high blood pressure. African American mothers’ DNA sequence variation (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism or SNP) in interaction with her BMI suggested that differences in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) levels were dependent on the woman’s genotype and BMI. Results among children in the study showed a specific SNP (rs1879282) and BMI interaction suggested that differences in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and DBP depend on genetic influences and BMI. This can be identified early in life, prior to being diagnosed with high blood pressure.
By identifying a specific SNP as a risk factor for increased blood pressure in African American female offspring with a normal blood pressure, early intervention and treatment can be implemented. In order to delay the development of high blood pressure in this at-risk population, genetic screening is critical. In addition, lifestyle interventions can prevent hypertension and promote overall well-being. Hypertension and obesity disparities can be combatted with through reducing risk factors and health promotion.
Written by Carina Luksas, Visiting Student in Research.