Blood pressure could predict death risk

British researchers have claimed that significant variation in the blood pressure of each arm could increase the risk of dying sooner.

According to a study of 230 people with high blood pressure, people who showed a big difference in systolic pressure had more risk of dying from strokes or heart attacks.

The research was published in the British Medical Journal by Dr Christopher Clark from the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry at the University of Exeter.

However, many doctors are still failing to take blood pressure readings from both arms.

Dr Clark told the BBC: "Sorry guys, but you really need to follow the guidelines by measuring both arms when you're assessing blood pressure."

The study looked at 230 patients with high blood pressure who visited GP surgeries in Devon and monitored them for a decade.

The study found differences of 10mm Hg or greater in systolic blood pressure revealed a higher danger of death from stroke or heart attack. 

Dr Clark added: "If they are being treated on the basis of their blood pressure, it's important to know if there's a difference between arms so they know their treatment is based on the correct measurements in the future." 

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