New Hypertension Guidelines Recommend Weight Loss and Exercise

Nearly half of American adults are at risk for major health problems because of high blood pressure. This is according to a new scientific guidelines* that redefine the dangerous condition and best tactics for earlier intervention. With the new guidelines in place, 103 million people (up from 72 million) need to make lifestyle changes to their diet and exercise regimen. The new guidelines* (the first major update since 2003) were announced November 13 at the American Heart Association’s annual scientific sessions. However, there will only be a small increase in the number of US adults who will require antihypertensive medication.

30 Million Americans Added to List for Hypertension

Systolic reading refers to the pressure when the heart contracts and sends blood through the arteries. Diastolic pressure is measured when the heart relaxes between beats. When compared with the number diagnosed before the new guidelines, an additional 14% of U.S. adults are living with high blood pressure. Although one in three Americans had previously been diagnosed with the hypertension, now 14% more Americans will be diagnosed with high blood pressure. Only a small increase is expected in the number of adults requiring antihypertensive medication, most will only need to make lifestyle changes.

New Guidelines Recommend Weight Loss and Change of Diet

The American Heart Association saw the need to update blood pressure guidelines to reflect the real threats of high blood pressure identified in hundreds of studies. If a person with white coat hypertension is treated based on the doctor's office blood pressure alone, they could be grossly over-treated, which prompted the reviewers to make new recommendations. An important cornerstone of these new guidelines is a strong emphasis on weight loss, healthy eating and more exercise as the first line of therapy. These new guidelines give you a voice and an opportunity to ask your healthcare providers about your unique risks.

* Download PDF of Highlights from the American Heart Association & American Stroke Association for the 2017 Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults.