Also called signal transduction, it is the process of communication within the cells that governs cell function, which is, in this case, platelet aggregation. Such an altered signal transduction may be responsible for increased platelet aggregation in hypertensive subjects. Although Akbar's research is far from complete, these preliminary findings are bringing him closer to understanding the biochemical pathways involved in platelet aggregation in people with hypertension. But being close isn't enough to zero in on prevention, forcing physicians instead to focus on treatment of the disorder once it's diagnosed. Long-term management of any disease is very difficult and compliance is hard to obtain.
Many antihypertensive drugs have side effects, which makes management even more difficult.
Return to top Prescription for a cure The American Heart Association estimates that 35 percent of the people who have high blood pressure don't realize they have it. And, as Akbar suggests, many of those who have been diagnosed do not stick to their prescribed treatment, which usually includes a combination of medication, exercise, and diet restriction. Margarete Chapman admits that she eats a little more salt than her doctor would like. But she follows her drug regimen very carefully, despite the number of side effects she's experienced. One drug made her ankles swell and another caused an itchy rash on her scalp.