Use of Height-Adjustable Tables Can Help Lower Blood Pressure

New Study from University of Pittsburgh Using Humanscale Workstations Confirms Multiple Sit/Stand Health Benefits

New York, NY – January, 5, 2018 – A recent study using Humanscale workstations shows that alternating between sitting and standing positions throughout the day can lower blood pressure. This news is particularly timely as the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association revised the guidelines that determine hypertension in November. Whereas previous to last month, only 29% of Americans had high blood pressure, a report from the American Heart Association’s peer-reviewed journal shows that over 45% of Americans can now be said to suffer from hypertension as a result of the changing goalposts.

The new guidelines underscore the importance of the study from researchers at the University of Pittsburgh, led by Dr. Bethany BaroneGibbs. When participants alternated postures every half hour, they experienced a significantly lower diastolic blood pressure, the pressure on the arteries between heart beats when the heart is relaxed (mean(SE): -1.00(.4) mmHg, P= 0.020). Carotid-ankle pulse wave velocity, a measure of stiffness in the arteries of the legs, was also significantly lower when study participants alternated between sitting and standing throughout the day (-0.270(13)m/s, P= 0.047). In short, blood pools in the legs as a result of prolonged sitting, but cardiovascular health can be improved by integrating more movement throughout the day with the use of a sit/stand desk.

As suddenly an estimated 15 million more Americans between the ages of 45 and 75 are now determined to have hypertension, everyone is seeking solutions to lower blood pressure naturally and avoid the necessity for medication. While the act of prolonged sitting has been dubbed “the new smoking” in recent years, this research suggests that reducing the time spent sitting at work with the use of a sit/stand desk may indeed have measurable benefits on one’s health. According to the CDC, “high blood pressure costs the nation $46 billion each year. This total includes the cost of healthcare services, medications to treat high blood pressure, and missed days of work.” A sit/stand desk may serve as a simple, low-cost solution to help lower blood pressure for those affected by hypertension.

The University of Pittsburgh study utilized height-adjustable workstations from Humanscale, a company known for its dedication to creating a healthier, more comfortable work experience with ergonomic work tools. Humanscale will be showcasing QuickStand Eco, the next generation in sit/stand, at booth 43123 at the Sands Expo at CES January 9-13.

Media Contacts
Danielle McWilliams / Katie Bone
Novità Communications
Danielle@novitapr.com / Katie@novitapr.com
212.528.3160

About Humanscale

Humanscale is the leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance ergonomic products that improve the health and comfort of work life. Through leveraging new technology in functional yet minimal designs, Humanscale transforms traditional offices into active, intelligent workspaces. Committed to making a net positive impact on the earth as well as our customers, Humanscale offers award-winning products designed with a focus on function, simplicity and longevity.