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ABOUT BLOOD PRESSURE
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In Canada (Toll-Free): 1-800-463-5414
Assessing High Blood Pressure
The following standards for assessing high blood pressure
(without regard to age) have been established as a guideline.
BP Classification
Systolic (mmHg)
Diastolic (mmHg)
Normal
<120
and
<80
Prehypertension
120-139
or
80-89
Stage 1 Hypertension
140-159
or
90-99
Stage 2 Hypertension
*
160
or
*
100
SOURCE: The Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on
Prevention, Evaluation and Treatment of High Blood Pressure. National
Heart, Lung and Blood Institute - May 2003.
What Is Hypertension?
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is the diagnosis given
when readings consistently rise above normal. It is well
known that hypertension can lead to stroke, heart attack or
other illness if left untreated. Referred to as a “silent killer”
because it does not always produce symptoms that alert you
to the problem, hypertension is treatable when diagnosed
early. Those who fall within the Prehypertensive range are
more likely to develop hypertension in the future.
Can Hypertension Be Controlled?
In many individuals, hypertension can be controlled by
altering lifestyle and minimizing stress, and by appropriate
medication prescribed and monitored by your doctor. The
American Heart Association recommends the following
lifestyle suggestions to prevent or control hypertension:
Don’t smoke.
Have regular physical
Reduce salt and fat intake.
checkups.
Maintain proper weight.
Monitor your blood
Exercise routinely.
pressure at periodic
intervals.
