The current definition of hypertension (HTN) is systolic blood pressure (SBP) values of 130 mm Hg or more and/or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of more than 80 mm Hg. Hypertension ranks among the most common chronic medical condition characterized by a persistent elevation in arterial pressure. For decades, high blood pressure was defined as 140/90 mm Hg. In November, 2017, new United States guidelines lowered the threshold for diagnosing the condition. According to new guidelines, anyone with a reading of 130/80 mm Hg or higher has blood pressure. Based on this new definition, nearly half of Americans now fall into this group. Blood pressure is now categorized as follows: Normal: less than 120/80 mm Hg Elevated: 120/80 to 129/79 mm Hg Stage 1 hypertension: 130/80 to 139/89 mm Hg ... Hypertension is defined as a systolic blood pressure (BP) ≥ 130 mm Hg or a diastolic blood pressure ≥ 80 mm Hg or taking medication for hypertension. This definition is based on the relationship between blood pressure and cardiovascular events in large populations. Nearly half of adults in the United States have hypertension. Hypertension, also known as high or raised blood pressure, is a condition in which the blood vessels have persistently raised pressure. Blood is carried from the heart to all parts of the body in the vessels.
