In recent studies it has been found that the size of the blood pressure cuff used (the focus was on automated blood pressure cuffs) could result in inaccurate readings. This misreading occurs when a "regular" adult size cuff is used instead of a large or extra large adult cuff.
Specifically studies reported:
- Using a cuff that was too small mistakenly resulted in higher blood pressure readings in 39% of participants, while using a cuff that was too large missed 22% of those who did have hypertension.
- More than 40% of participants were classified as obese. Those who required a large or extra-large cuff had significantly higher readings when using a regular-sized cuff. Systolic readings were 4.8 mmHg higher for those needing a large cuff and 19.7 mmHg higher for those needing an extra-large.
What does this mean for you? More than ever patients have to advocate for themselves. If you feel that the cuff being used on you is the wrong size, SPEAK UP. If you do have hypertension, it is important to know that so that appropriate measures can be taken. However, if you do not, you might be taking the wrong medicine or dosage for a situation that is inaccurate for you.
The researchers who did the studies have the following recommendations.
- "It's important for health care professionals and the public to recognize the importance of cuff size for the clinician's office, kiosk and home blood pressure measurement," Brady said. "For example, cuff size may be even more important in communities with high prevalence of obesity since large or extra-large cuff sizes may provide more accurate blood pressure readings."
- “We expected to see a difference but did not expect the degree that we found,” Brady said in an interview. “The fact that using a regular BP cuff for people who need an extra-large cuff can cause someone to overestimate BP by 20 mm Hg is striking and can lead to imprecise diagnoses and potential overtreatment.”
- Brady said a renewed emphasis on cuff size is warranted, particularly in populations with high prevalence of obesity requiring large or extra-large cuff sizes.
To learn more, you can read the full articles by clicking the links below
Wrong BP Cuff Size Could Cause Inaccurate BP Measurement
When it Comes to Accurate Blood Pressure Readings Cuff Size Matters