Caffeine is one of the most widely consumed psychoactive substances globally, present in coffee, tea, soft drinks, and energy beverages. While its stimulating effects are well-documented, its potential role in elevating blood pressure and contributing to hypertension remains controversial. This paper evaluates whether a causal relationship exists between caffeine intake and high blood pressure by applying Bradford Hill’s criteria of causation. Drawing from epidemiological studies, experimental research, and physiological mechanisms, the analysis finds that while caffeine can cause short-term elevations in blood pressure, the long-term association with chronic hypertension is inconsistent. Some criteria such as temporality, biological plausibility, and experimental evidence are partially met, but others, including strength and consistency, show weaker support. The current evidence suggests that caffeine may have a modest and transient effect on blood pressure in certain populations but does not meet the full threshold for causality regarding chronic hypertension. Further longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the nature and magnitude of this relationship.
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- Kingsley Adimabua (Autor), 2025, Evaluating the Causal Relationship Between Caffeine Consumption and Hypertension Using Hill’s Criteria of Causation, Múnich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1597573
