High blood pressure affects approximately one in every three adults worldwide, making it a significant risk factor for various health conditions, including heart attack, stroke, and kidney damage. The American Heart Association (AHA) has updated its guidelines on the prevention and management of hypertension, incorporating new research information for the 2025 guidelines.
The AHA advises that anyone can develop high blood pressure, but lifestyle modifications can prevent or control the condition in many people. The organization recommends regular blood pressure monitoring, with adults having their blood pressure checked at least once a year, more frequently if they have high blood pressure. Patients with readings above 180/120 mmHg should seek medical attention urgently if they experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or speech difficulty.
The new guidelines emphasize the importance of lifestyle changes to manage high blood pressure, including limiting sodium and alcohol intake, eating a heart-healthy diet, maintaining physical activity, managing weight and stress. Achieving a systolic blood pressure of 130 mmHg or below, ideally 120 mmHg, is the goal for adults with high blood pressure.
According to the guidelines, intensive lowering of blood pressure can reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Patients with an average blood pressure of 130/80 mmHg and a low cardiovascular disease risk should initiate medication therapy in addition to lifestyle modification if their blood pressure remains above this level after a trial period.
The AHA also recommends reducing sodium consumption to 1500 mg/day and limiting alcohol intake to less than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. These guidelines aim to encourage clinicians to recommend lifestyle changes and promote the use of risk calculators to determine which patients may benefit from medical therapy.
Regular monitoring and early treatment can significantly improve cardiovascular health. According to Dr. Daniel W. Jones, MD, FAHA, “Annual screening, prevention, and early treatment for high blood pressure are the keys to a longer, healthier life.”
Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/revised-aha-guidelines-on-hypertension-whats-new