What defines Stage 1 Hypertension?

Stage 1 Hypertension is defined by specific blood pressure measurements that indicate a person's cardiovascular risk level. The correct range for Stage 1 Hypertension is between 140 to 159 mmHg for systolic pressure and between 90 to 99 mmHg for diastolic pressure. This classification is significant because it helps healthcare providers identify and manage blood pressure issues early, enabling interventions that can prevent complications related to hypertension, such as heart disease and stroke.

The thresholds below and above this range indicate different classifications of blood pressure levels. For instance, values below 130/80 mmHg are categorized as normal or optimal blood pressure, while pressures exceeding 160 systolic or 100 diastolic are classified as Stage 2 Hypertension or higher. Understanding these categories is critical for effective monitoring and treatment of hypertension.