A major international study has found over 20 genetic variants that contribute to the risk of high blood pressure. Scientists are hoping that the discovery could lead to better ways of treating high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke.

The 28 variants were identified by pooling results from genetic studied that involved over 200,000 people worldwide.

The medical director of British Heart Foundation (the charity that part-funded the study), Professor Peter Weissberg, said: “Your genes are only one piece of the puzzle. You are less likely to have high blood pressure if you stick to a healthy diet, do plenty of exercise, and maintain a healthy weight.”

The study was reported in an early online edition of Nature.

Written exclusively for The Life Dept| Live Longer | 12 September 2011 | Whoosh! The only site that can compare any combo of life insurance, critical illness insurance and income protection cover (in a whizz – without asking for your name, email address or telephone number). See how fast it is: click on our Whoosher.