This population-based Swedish cohort of over 10,000 men followed for nearly four decades demonstrates a robust, dose-dependent association between adolescent blood pressure and future coronary atherosclerosis detected by CCTA. Even BP levels previously considered “borderline” starting at 120/80 mm Hg were linked with increased prevalence of both mild and severe coronary stenosis in middle age. Stage 2 hypertension in adolescence nearly doubled the odds of severe (≥50%) stenosis decades later.
Systolic BP exerted a stronger predictive relationship than diastolic BP, underscoring the importance of early-life SBP surveillance. These findings reinforce the need for proactive BP control strategies beginning in adolescence to curb the long-term burden of coronary artery disease. To explore the complete methodology, statistical modeling, and clinical implications, read the full journal article…
