On the other hand, Seidelmann et al. revealed in patients (n = 11,361 African Americans and whites) from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study that the NPPB:rs198389 minor allele (c.-381C allele) was not only associated with elevated NT-proBNP levels throughout adult life but also with reduced blood pressure, a reduced risk of hypertension and cardiovascular mortality, and an increased lifespan [18]. The gene discussed is NPPB; the disease is Hypertension.