A 68-year-old man from Cambridgeshire has been cured of high blood pressure after taking part in a revolutionary study at Addenbrooke’s Hospital. Chris Miller, from Friday Bridge near Wisbech, struggled with high blood pressure for over a decade, despite being on multiple medications. Now, thanks to the FABULAS study, he is free from medication and healthier than ever.
Chris was diagnosed with primary aldosteronism, a common yet underdiagnosed cause of high blood pressure. Before the study, his blood pressure was dangerously high, even with maximum doses of three different medications. He was invited by Professor Mark Gurnell to participate in the FABULAS trial, which tested a new diagnostic technique and treatment.
The study, published in The Lancet, shows how a novel tracer molecule and minimally invasive treatment could help millions suffering from primary aldosteronism worldwide. In the UK, one in three adults has high blood pressure, and up to 5% of these cases are caused by benign nodules in the adrenal glands. Yet, fewer than 1% of these patients are diagnosed, putting them at risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure.
A Revolutionary Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment
The current diagnostic process for primary aldosteronism involves an invasive procedure available in only a few UK hospitals. Treatment typically requires major surgery or lifelong medication.
The FABULAS study introduced an innovative method combining:
- A PET scan with a molecular tracer that identifies adrenal nodules.
- A new minimally invasive treatment called Triple T (Targeted Thermal Therapy), which destroys problematic nodules using radio waves.
The PET scan takes just 10 minutes, and the Triple T procedure lasts only 20 minutes. This breakthrough offers a faster, less invasive alternative to traditional treatments.
Chris’s PET scan revealed a nodule in his left adrenal gland, making him eligible for the new procedure. After undergoing Triple T, he was discharged shortly after and quickly returned to normal life. His blood pressure is now stable, and he no longer needs medication.
“Since taking part in the trial, I haven’t had any issues with blood pressure – I’m cured,” Chris said. “It’s great not having to remember to take pills every day. I can now enjoy long walks with my wife and dog without worry.”
The Future of High Blood Pressure Treatment
Professor Mark Gurnell, Clinical Endocrinology Lead at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, believes this method could transform the way high blood pressure is diagnosed and treated. “While it may not be a complete cure for everyone, it will help manage symptoms and reduce dependency on lifelong medication,” he said.
The study’s success has led to a larger trial called WAVE, which will compare this new treatment to traditional surgery. Results are expected in 2027.
The FABULAS study is a game-changer for people with treatment-resistant high blood pressure. With more awareness and advancements, millions could benefit from early diagnosis and effective treatment.
If you’re interested in participating in research like this, visit Addenbrooke’s Hospital website or use the MyChart app to express your interest in clinical studies.
