Stage 2: Systolic at least 140 or diastolic at least 90 mm Hg.Stage 1: Systolic between 130-139 or diastolic between 80-89.Elevated: Systolic between 120-129 and diastolic less than 80.It doesn't mean you need medication, but it's a yellow light that you need to be lowering your blood pressure, mainly with non-drug approaches.'īlood pressure categories in the new guideline are: 'We want to be straight with people – if you already have a doubling of risk, you need to know about it. Whelton, MB, MD, MSc, FACC, lead author of the guidelines. 'You've already doubled your risk of cardiovascular complications compared to those with a normal level of blood pressure,' said Paul K. However, only a small increase is expected in the number of adults requiring antihypertensive medication.

Additionally, the prevalence of high blood pressure is expected to triple among men under age 45, and double among women under 45, the guideline authors note. adult population (46 percent) having high blood pressure, with the greatest impact expected among younger people. The new definition will result in nearly half of the U.S. The new guidelines – the first comprehensive set since 2003 – lower the definition of high blood pressure to account for complications that can occur at lower numbers and to allow for earlier intervention. High blood pressure should be treated earlier with lifestyle changes and in some patients with medication – at 130/80 mm Hg rather than 140/90 – based on new ACC and American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines for the detection, prevention, management and treatment of high blood pressure.

Printable blood pressure range chart