Breakthrough: Cause and Cure Found for High Blood Pressure.

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have discovered a gene variant that causes hypertension in some patients. The variant affects a protein called CADM1 and leads to intermittent over-production of the hormone aldosterone, causing salt overload and hypertension. The researchers recommend measuring aldosterone through a 24-hour urine test to identify more people living with hypertension but going undiagnosed. The condition can be cured by removing one of the two adrenal glands. The research was funded by Barts Charity and undertaken by research fellows funded by the British Heart Foundation, National Institute of Health Research, Medical Research Council, and Royal Society.