Read the article and do the tasks below.

While reading, find the words and expressions that mean the following:

1) повышенное артериальное давление; 2) по сравнению с; 3) инсульт; 4) почечная недостаточность; 4) многочисленные факторы; 5) быть склонным к; 6) определить; 7) вероятно; 8) недостаток физической нагрузки; 9) передавать (о генах, наследственности); 10) свидетельства, данные (полученные в результате исследования).

'Blood pressure gene' affects 20%.

The STK39 gene variant was found after scanning the genetic code of 350 people in the US and Europe. People with the variant had raised blood pressure (BP) compared with those carrying other versions.

High BP, also called hypertension, is important because, over time, it can increase the chances of heart problems, strokes and kidney failure. According to statistics, one in four people living in western countries has high BP, often undiagnosed.

When scientists linked variants of the STK39 gene to high BP, they realized that the gene produced a protein which controlled how the kidneys processed salt - a key factor in changing BP.

Dr Chang, one of the researchers, said: "This discovery will help us to individualize treatments - what we call personalized medicine." However, he added: "Hypertension is a very complex condition, with numerous genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors involved. The STK39 gene is only one important piece of the puzzle."

Mike Rich from the BP Association said: "The study may help us identify those individuals who may be more prone to hypertension. However, there are already indicators which can help us determine who is more likely to develop the condition, such as a family history of hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and poor diet and lack of exercise. The things you learn from your parents in terms of lifestyle and habits will probably have as much effect on your chances of developing hypertension as the genes they pass down to you."

Professor Mark Caulfield said the evidence pointed towards many different genes each having a small effect on BP.

1. Does the article say that…

1) high BP increases the risk of developing other diseases?

2) the STK39 gene variant is the only factor responsible for hypertension?

3) there are a lot of people who do not even suspect (подозревают) they have hypertension?

4) the function of the kidneys can affect BP?

5) BP does not depend on your diet?

6) the genes your parents pass down to you can influence your BP?

7) high BP can only cause cardio-vascular diseases?

Дата добавления: 2015-11-14