Diferencia elevada de presión arterial interbraquial: Frecuencia y factores clínicos y demográficos.

High difference of inter-arm blood pressure (HDIABP) measurements could predict adverse cardiovascular events. Objectives: To determine the frequency of HDIABP and to describe clinical and demographic factors related to it. Methods: Cross sectional study. A random sample of 211 patients from a public hospital in Lima was taken. Blood pressure was measured three times, simultaneously in both arms with two automated sphygmomanometers OMROM HEM705CP properly calibrated, with the patient seated with at least 5 minutes of previous resting. Clinical and demographic data were collected. Systolic HDIABP was defined as ≥ 10 mmHg and ≥ 20 mmHg, and diastolic HDIABP as ≥ 10 mmHg. Chi square test and Fisher´s exact test were used, as well as the correlation coefficient for qualitative and quantitative data. Results: Mean age was 48.92 ± 16.75 years; 67.3% were females; 23.08% were obese; 19.23% had blood hypertension and 13.42% were smokers. The frequencies of systolic and diastolic HDIABP were 40.38%, 30.29%, 15.88%, 12.98% and 13%, 10.1%. There was correlation between HDIABP and body mass index (p<0.05). Conclusions: The frequency of HDIABP found is similar than that reported elsewhere. We found and association between HDIABP and body mass index, but more studies are needed to determine a true association between these two variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]