Do different regions have different rates of hypertension alongside hidradenitis suppurativa?

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition that often occurs alongside other health problems, including high blood pressure (hypertension). Research shows that the rate of hypertension in people with HS varies by region. A 2024 systematic review found that patients in North America have higher odds of having hypertension compared to those in the Middle East and Asia ⁶. This suggests that where you live may influence your risk of having both conditions.

What the research says

A systematic review and meta-analysis examined regional differences in major comorbidities among HS patients, including hypertension ⁶. The study compared data from North America, Europe, and the Middle East/Asia. It found that North American HS patients had significantly higher odds of hypertension compared to those in the Middle East/Asia (odds ratio 2.99) ⁶. This means North American patients were about three times more likely to have hypertension than patients in the Middle East/Asia. The odds of hypertension were also higher in North America compared to Europe, though the difference was not as large ⁶. These findings highlight that regional factors—such as diet, environment, or healthcare practices—may play a role in the link between HS and hypertension. Other sources discuss how environmental factors like soil contaminants ¹ and ultra-processed foods ⁸ can contribute to hypertension, but they do not specifically address regional differences in HS patients.

What to ask your doctor

• Given my region, what is my risk of having both HS and hypertension?
• Should I be screened for hypertension more often because of my HS?
• Are there lifestyle changes specific to my region that could help manage both conditions?
• How do regional differences in diet or environment affect HS and hypertension together?