Hypertension, Levels of Serum Gamma Glutamyl Transpeptidase and Degree of Blood Pressure Control in Middle‐Aged Males

Abstract

Among the 1st screened 2439 males born in 1926 and 1927, aged 48-49 yr at the time of screening and representing 76% of these age cohorts, uncontrolled or partly controlled hypertension was found in 7.5%. Of these individuals, 30% preferred to remain with their physicians, regardless of the degree of control of they had achieved. Among those who were referred to the hypertension unit (5.2% of the screened population), elevated S-GT [serum .gamma. glutamyl transpeptidase] levels (.gtoreq. 1.10 .mu.katal/l) were found in 38.3% against 18.5% in the 2 cohorts. During 24 mo. of treatment and follow-up, 2 men among the entire group of hypertensives referred dropped out. Both were heavy drinkers (> 80 g alcohol daily). The mean BP [blood pressure] after treatment was significantly lower among men with normal than high S-GT values or in those who admitted to heavy drinking. Of the 99 males treated for > 2 yr, 82 (83%) were responders (supine D[diastolic]BP .ltoreq. 95 mmHg). Of the non-responders, 70% were heavy drinkers or had abnormal S-GT values. The possible role of alcohol in the pathogenesis of essential hypertension in middle-aged males is discussed.