Whitehead Institute

Hypertension
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Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Headache, dizziness, shortness of breath
Complications	Heart disease, stroke, kidney failure
Onset	Gradual
Duration	Long term
Types	N/A
Causes	Genetics, diet, lifestyle
Risks	Obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption
Diagnosis	Blood pressure measurement
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Lifestyle changes, medication
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. It is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke.

Signs and Symptoms

Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because it typically has no symptoms until it has caused significant damage to the heart and arteries. Some people with high blood pressure may experience headaches, dizziness, or shortness of breath.

Causes

The exact cause of hypertension is often unknown, but several factors can contribute to its development, including:

• Genetics
• Unhealthy diet, particularly high salt intake
• Lack of physical activity
• Obesity
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Smoking

Diagnosis

Hypertension is diagnosed by measuring blood pressure using a sphygmomanometer. A reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher is generally considered high.

Treatment

Treatment for hypertension typically involves lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes may include:

• Eating a healthy diet
• Reducing salt intake
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Quitting smoking

Medications used to treat hypertension include diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers.

Complications

If left untreated, hypertension can lead to serious health problems, including:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Kidney failure
• Vision loss

Prevention

Preventing hypertension involves adopting a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use.

See Also

• Cardiovascular disease
• Blood pressure
• Heart attack

External Links

• World Health Organization: Hypertension
• CDC: High Blood Pressure

The Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research is a renowned non-profit research institution dedicated to improving human health through basic biomedical research. Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, it operates as an independent entity but also maintains strong affiliations with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), particularly with MIT's Department of Biology. The institute was founded in 1982 by businessman and philanthropist Edwin C. "Jack" Whitehead, who envisioned a facility that would bridge the gap between medical research and the treatment of diseases.

History

The Whitehead Institute was established with the goal of fostering collaboration and innovation in the field of biomedical research. Its founding was marked by a significant donation from Jack Whitehead, which enabled the construction of a state-of-the-art research facility and the recruitment of leading scientists. Since its inception, the institute has made groundbreaking contributions to the understanding of genetic and molecular processes underlying various diseases, including cancer, immune disorders, and genetic diseases.

Research and Impact

The Whitehead Institute's research efforts are organized around a number of key areas, including genetics, cancer biology, stem cell research, and developmental biology. Its scientists employ a wide range of techniques from molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry to unravel the complexities of living systems and disease mechanisms. One of the institute's notable achievements includes contributions to the Human Genome Project, a global effort to map and understand all the genes of the human species. Whitehead Institute researchers have also been pioneers in the field of stem cell research, making significant strides in understanding how stem cells can be used to model diseases and potentially develop new therapies.

Facilities and Resources

The Whitehead Institute's facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories, high-throughput sequencing capabilities, and advanced imaging technologies. These resources support a wide range of research activities and collaborations both within the institute and with other research organizations around the world.

Education and Training

In addition to its research mission, the Whitehead Institute is committed to educating the next generation of scientists. Through its partnership with MIT, the institute offers training and mentorship to graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. These individuals have the opportunity to work alongside world-renowned scientists, gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge biomedical research.

Collaborations and Partnerships

The Whitehead Institute collaborates with a variety of academic, medical, and industry partners to advance the understanding of disease and develop new therapeutic approaches. These collaborations leverage the institute's research strengths and foster a multidisciplinary approach to solving complex biological problems.

Conclusion

The Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research continues to be at the forefront of biomedical science, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and technology to improve human health. Its contributions to the scientific community and society at large underscore the importance of basic research in addressing the challenges of disease and health care.

Whitehead Institute Resources
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