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As only 10% of patients with high blood pressure are 'salt sensitive' (meaning that the blood pressure fails to fall in 90% of hypertensives when salt intake is greatly reduced), it seems plausible that consuming high levels of sodium from a young age can “programme” the cardiovascular system to maintain higher blood pressure later in life.
Diastolic heart failure (often referred to as 'Heart failure with preserved Ejection Fraction' or 'HFpEF') arises from ventricular stiffening due to age, hypertension, and various other rarer heart conditions. The aging component of this process is unavoidable, but maintaining optimal blood pressure through midlife is achievable and, if successful, should prevent additional left ventricular stiffening attributed to hypertension. By regularly monitoring blood pressure and using effective medication, we can help patients live longer with healthier hearts.