Study Shows Cost-Effective Benefits of Intensive Blood Pressure Targets

Recent research conducted by investigators at Mass General Brigham reveals that targeting a lower systolic blood pressure of less than 120 mm Hg is not only clinically beneficial but also cost-effective in reducing cardiovascular events. The simulation study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, analyzed data from the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT), the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), and other scientific literature to evaluate long-term health outcomes.

The study focused on comparing different blood pressure targets—less than 120 mm Hg, less than 130 mm Hg, and less than 140 mm Hg—and assessed their impact on health and healthcare costs. The findings indicated that the <120 mm Hg target significantly lowered the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure compared to higher targets. Even accounting for measurement errors common in routine clinical settings, the lower target remained superior in preventing cardiovascular events.

However, intensifying blood pressure control to below 120 mm Hg was associated with an increased risk of adverse effects such as falls, kidney injuries, hypotension, and bradycardia. It also led to higher healthcare utilization and costs due to more frequent medication adjustments and doctor visits.

Despite these challenges, the analysis demonstrated that the cost per quality-adjusted life-year gained was approximately $42,000, positioning the <120 mm Hg strategy as a cost-effective approach. Lead researcher Dr. Karen Smith emphasized the importance of shared decision-making, noting that while aggressive blood pressure management can offer substantial benefits, individual patient factors must be considered.

The study advocates for confident pursuit of intensive blood pressure targets for high-risk populations, highlighting that the potential for greater health benefits outweighs the risks and costs, provided patients and clinicians collaborate on treatment plans.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-intensive-blood-pressure-effective.html