Volunteerism for prevention of hypertension?

Higher levels of volunteerism were associated with a 40% reduction in the risk of hypertension, according to new research from Carnegie Mellon university that was published in an article on Science Daily.

The research followed 1,164 adults aged 51-91 from across the United States.  Results were collected in 2006 and 2010.  In 2006, the participants all had normal blood pressure levels.  The study collected data on volunteerism, various social and psychological factors, and blood pressure.

Those with more than 200 hours of volunteer work were at 40% less risk of hypertension.

The authors of the study have suggested that forming social connections through volunteer work may help ward off the stress that is believed to be one of the underlying causes of hypertension.

For more information on volunteering in your area, check out www.volunteer.gov.