Effect of weight on women's risk of hypertension

This study investigated body mass index at 18 years of age and midlife as well as long- and medium-term weight changes in relation to risk of hypertension among 82,472 female nurses 30 to 55 years of age in the United States. The study started in 1976, and the participants were followed up every 2 years for 16 years. By 1992, 16,395 incident hypertension cases had been diagnosed. Higher body mass index at 18 and at midlife increased risk of subsequent hypertension. Long-term weight loss after 18 significantly reduced risk, and weight gain dramatically increased risk. Thus, excess weight and even modest adult weight gain apparently increase the risk of hypertension substantially, and weight loss significantly reduces risk.