Get Email Alerts
Who Is at Risk for Pulmonary Hypertension?
The exact number of people who have pulmonary hypertension (PH) isn't known.
Group 1 pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) without a known cause is rare. It affects women more often than men. People who have group 1 PAH tend to be overweight.
PH that occurs with another disease or condition is more common.
PH usually develops between the ages of 20 and 60, but it can occur at any age. People who are at increased risk for PH include:
- Those who have a family history of the condition.
- Those who have certain diseases or conditions, such as heart and lung diseases, liver disease, HIV infection, or blood clots in the pulmonary arteries. (For more information about the diseases, conditions, and factors that cause PH, go to "Types of Pulmonary Hypertension.")
- Those who use street drugs (such as cocaine) or certain diet medicines.
- Those who live at high altitudes.
Clinical trials are research studies that explore whether a medical strategy, treatment, or device is safe and effective for humans. To find clinical trials that are currently underway for Pulmonary Hypertension, visit www.clinicaltrials.gov.
The NHLBI updates Health Topics articles on a biennial cycle based on a thorough review of research findings and new literature. The articles also are updated as needed if important new research is published. The date on each Health Topics article reflects when the content was originally posted or last revised.
Twitter
Facebook
YouTube