AHA i.e. American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology (ACC) have released a new guideline related to high blood pressure (hypertension). This is the first major update in the last 6 years. This will help in preventing and treating high blood pressure.

The American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology estimate that about half of the adults in America suffer from high blood pressure. The World Health Organization (WHO) calls it a silent killer, because initially its clear symptoms are not visible.

According to the World Health Organization, about 128 crore adults around the world suffer from high blood pressure. This problem occurs to about one in every four people between the ages of 30 and 79. About 82% of these people live in low and middle income countries like India. Therefore, it is important to know about the new guideline.

Half the people are unaware of their problem

According to the World Health Organization, about 46% of the people in the world do not know that they have the problem of high blood pressure or hypertension. All such people are at a higher risk of problems caused by high blood pressure. As age increases, this problem can increase, but now the new guideline emphasizes on prevention in advance. Doctors say that if blood pressure is checked in time and small changes are made in the lifestyle, then the health of the heart, kidney and brain can be saved.

What is blood pressure and why is it important to understand it?

Blood pressure means how much pressure is there when blood flows in the veins. It is measured by two numbers – the upper number i.e. systolic pressure and the lower one i.e. diastolic pressure. If it becomes high, the arteries can harden and the heart is burdened. The new guideline states that the target of blood pressure for all adults should be kept below 120/80 mm Hg. Earlier this target was a little higher, but now research has shown that keeping it low keeps brain health better.

What is the effect of high blood pressure on brain health?

For the first time, the new guidelines have emphasized on brain health. Research has shown that high BP can weaken memory and increase the risk of dementia. If BP remains high, the nerves of the brain are affected, which can lead to stroke or cognitive decline. Therefore, now the goal is to keep BP below 10, especially to protect the brain. Doctors say that if your BP is high, then reduce it now to save brain health in the future.

BP ranges

Normal less than 120/80 mm HgElevated120-129 mm Hg and <80 mm HgStage 1 hypertension130-139 mm Hg or 80-89 mm HgStage 2 hypertension ≥140 mm Hg or ≥90 mm Hg