A new way of interpreting blood pressure readings taken at the ankle could significantly improve care for people who are unable to have their blood pressure measured on the arm – offering reassurance, earlier diagnosis, and better treatment outcomes. Kate Boddy, a Research Fellow for the PenARC Patient and Public Involvement team, contributed to this exciting study.
The research, led by the University of Exeter Medical School and published in BMJ Open, analysed data from over 33,000 people worldwide to develop a more accurate way of estimating arm blood pressure from ankle readings. The study was funded by the NIHR and supported by organisations including the Stroke Association and Thalidomide Trust.
While most people have their blood pressure measured using a cuff on the arm, this isn’t always possible due to conditions such as stroke, limb loss, or other physical disabilities. Ankle measurements can be used as an alternative, but they tend to read higher and don’t align with existing treatment guidelines, making it difficult to interpret results accurately. This can lead to uncertainty, anxiety, and in some cases, misdiagnosis.
To address this, the research team created a personalised predictive model and an online calculator that healthcare professionals and patients can use to interpret ankle readings more reliably. The tool aims to improve diagnostic accuracy and reduce unnecessary concern or treatment delays.
Professor Chris Clark, who led the study, explained:
“Our new method will give a more accurate blood pressure reading for around two percent more people. While that may seem small, it could prevent up to 750 misdiagnoses a year in England alone — and many more globally.”
The study also highlights the potential to reduce health inequalities by offering a more inclusive approach to routine monitoring. It’s estimated that over 10,000 people in the UK live with upper limb loss, and around 75% of the country’s 1.3 million stroke survivors have upper limb dysfunction.
The tool is freely available online and could help clinicians and patients alike make better-informed decisions about blood pressure and cardiovascular health.
Read the full paper here.
Explore the online calculator here.
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