Association of urinary rubidium concentrations with hypertension risk and blood pressure levels: A cross-sectional study in China

Abstract

Bachground: Rubidium resembles potassium. We hypothesized that rubidium might play a role in blood pressure control.

Methods: We measured urinary rubidium concentrations and blood pressure levels using validated techniques and methods in 2002 eligible participants. Multivariable logistic and linear regression models were applied to explore the associations. The restricted cubic spline model was utilized to investigate the dose-response relationship. Furthermore, we explored the associations of rubidium with risk factors (glomerular filtration rate, uric acid, and homocysteine) for hypertension and relevant biochemical indexes.

Results: After adjustment for potential confounders and urinary potassium and sodium levels, doubling of urinary rubidium concentrations was significantly associated with decreased hypertension risk [odds ratio (OR), 0.76; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.61, 0.93] and reduced systolic blood pressure (SBP) levels of 2.92 (95% CI: 1.56, 4.26) mm Hg. Each 1.00 mg/L increase in rubidium concentrations was associated with a 1.25 mm Hg decreased SBP levels, which was at least 200 times more effective than potassium. Furthermore, urinary rubidium concentrations were negatively associated with the risk factors for hypertension.

Conclusions: Rubidium might have more prominent effects on lowering blood pressure levels than potassium. Prospective studies and experimental research focusing on our findings are needed.

Keywords: Blood pressure; Hypertension; Potassium; Rubidium.