516 Target organ damage in hypertension / Cardiomyopathy

Figure 1. Age at onset of elevated BP versus cIMT normotensives: 0.666±0.109mm prehypertensives: 0.689±0.122mm, hypertensives: 0.704±0.130mm, P<0.001). 30% of subjects with elevated BP were receiving anti-hypertensive medication and their cIMT was no different from those with equivalent BP and no treatment. BP rose progressively from 118±14 mmHg at 36y to 135±18mmHg at 60-64y and at each age was associated with a higher cIMT at 60-64y (all adjusted for classical CV risk factors). The earlier the BP elevation, the greater the impact on cIMT (Figure 1). There was no critical time period in this relationship. Conclusions: Long term elevation in BP, even at modest levels, results in cumulative vascular damage in later life. This argues for early intervention for BP control.