African-Americans who have slightly elevated blood pressure and don't do anything to change their lifestyle are more likely to have high blood pressure one year earlier than whites with pre-hypertension, according to a study published Monday.
Blood pressure numbers between 120-139 systolic (upper number) or 80-89 diastolic (lower number) are considered pre-hypertension. High blood pressure is defined as 140/90 mm Hg and greater.
Previous studies have shown that blacks have higher rates of high blood pressure (also known as hypertension), heart disease and stroke compared to whites. This new study says African-Americans with pre-hypertension are more likely to progress to having high blood pressure compared to whites in the same situation, suggesting the need for earlier interventions among black patients to potentially eliminate the disparities between races for hypertension.
African-Americans get higher blood pressure sooner – The Chart - CNN.com Blogs:
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