Should individuals be informed about their salt sensitivity status? First indications of the value of testing for genetic predisposition to low-risk conditions.

The present study examined the possible pathways of effect of genetic testing for relatively "low-risk" conditions by exploring positive as well as negative effects of anticipated test results on the intention to restrict salt intake. In a cross-sectional within-subjects design, patients being tested for genetic predispositions to salt sensitivity reported higher overall intentions to restrict their salt intake when anticipating positive test results, confirming the value of genetic testing for low-risk conditions. However, participants in the precontemplation and preparation stages of change reported lower intentions when anticipating negative test results.

Alpha-adducin Gly460Trp polymorphism and renal hemodynamics in essential hypertension.

Previous studies have shown an association between the alpha-adducin Gly460Trp polymorphism and salt-sensitive hypertension. Not much is known about the effects of the variants of this polymorphism on renal hemodynamics and function. Therefore, we performed the present study to investigate the effect of the 460Trp allele of the alpha-adducin gene on renal hemodynamics in one hundred and seventeen essential hypertensive patients who were put on a low and high sodium diet (randomized order).

Genetic predisposition to salt-sensitivity: a systematic review.

Purpose: To assess the role of genetic polymorphisms in salt sensitivity of blood pressure.

Data Identification: We conducted a systematic review by searching the Medline literature from March 1993 to June 2003. Each paper was scrutinized and data concerning study population, method of salt sensitivity testing, blood pressure measurement, definition of salt sensitivity, and effects were extracted.