(BPRW) Understanding High Blood Pressure: Key Facts for Black Communities

The American Heart Association stresses the power of prevention and early action for a healthy life and future generations

(Black PR Wire) DALLAS — High blood pressure is the #1 preventable risk factor for heart disease and stroke, yet, nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure and many don’t even know it. That is why the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on changing the future of health for all, is sharing tips and information on how to how to keep your blood pressure in check — starting with simple lifestyle changes.

 Why high blood pressure matters to you and your loved ones

• Currently, approximately 9 million (47.3%) of all U.S. adults are now living with high blood pressure, an increase from previous years.
• The burden is significantly higher in the Black community, where high blood pressure affects 3% of non-Hispanic Black men and 59.2% of non-Hispanic Black women. This remains one of the highest prevalence rates in the world.
• Despite high rates of awareness, only about 22% (roughly 1 in 5) of Black adults with hypertension have the condition under control.
• In 2023, cardiovascular conditions heavily driven by uncontrolled high blood pressure claimed the lives of more than 119,000 Black Americans, enough to fill nearly two NFL stadiums.
• This “silent killer” demands attention because controlling blood pressure is one of the most effective, evidence-based ways to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

“Heart health is intensely personal, and scientific research shows us that one of the most important things you can do to be heart healthy is to manage your blood pressure,” said Keith C. Ferdinand, M.D., FAHA, FACC, volunteer co-vice chair of the writing committee for the Association’s 2025 high blood pressure guidelines and chair in preventative cardiology at Tulane University School of Medicine. “When you have high blood pressure, it’s not just a number on a chart, it’s your future at stake; it’s your ability to stay present for the people you love. The good news is: managing your blood pressure is not that hard. The first step is awareness.”

Know Your Numbers

Get your blood pressure checked regularly, even if you only visit your doctor or other health care clinician once a year or so. You can do it yourself with a home blood pressure monitor or even at a kiosk at your local pharmacy or other retail outlet.

According to the most recent guidelines from the American Heart Association, normal blood pressure is when:

• Systolic pressure (top number) is less than 120 and
• Diastolic pressure (bottom number) is less than 80.

“One high reading isn’t usually cause for concern, although, if your blood pressure is consistently high, talk to your clinician about next steps,” said Ferdinand, chair in preventative cardiology at Tulane University School of Medicine. “However, an extremely high reading could be dangerous, especially if you are not exerting yourself or if you have certain other symptoms. Do not ignore that.”

If your systolic pressure is higher than 180 and/or your diastolic is higher than 120, it could be life-threatening. Call 911 right away if you have extremely high blood pressure and any of these symptoms:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Back pain
• Numbness
• Weakness
• Change in vision
• Difficulty speaking

A Healthy Lifestyle is Key

Making simple lifestyle changes is the first step to managing your blood pressure.

The American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8™ are simple, healthy habits that are proven to protect your heart. Follow these science-backed healthy habits:

Some people may still not be able to control their high blood pressure even with these changes. In that case, safe and effective medications are available, and you and your clinician can work together to choose the treatment plan that’s right for you. Check out My Life Check Calculator to get personalized tips to set your own health goals now.

Protect Your Brain

New research confirms that high blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the brain, which may lead to memory problems and dementia as you get older. Taking action now to lower your numbers is essential in protecting your cognitive health as you age.

A Special Focus on Women

It is critical for women to manage blood pressure before, during and after pregnancy. High blood pressure during pregnancy can lead to serious complications and may increase a woman’s risk of future heart problems.

Personalized Care

Don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor. They have new tools, like the American Heart Association’s PREVENTTM (Predicting Risk of cardiovascular disease EVENTs) risk calculator, to create a personalized plan for you. This tool helps your doctor look at your personal risk factors to estimate your chances of a heart attack or stroke over the next 10 to 30 years. This allows them to create a tailored treatment plan that might include starting medication earlier, if needed.

Staying informed and taking action can help you and your loved ones live a longer, healthier life. Talk to your doctor to learn more about your blood pressure and what you can do to manage it.

For more information about heart and brain health, visit heart.org.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.