The American Heart Association is raising awareness about high blood pressure, the leading preventable risk factor for heart disease and stroke in the U.S., which disproportionately affects Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. According to the association, approximately 125.9 million U.S. adults (47.3%) now live with high blood pressure, yet only about 1 in 4 have it under control. In the AANHPI community, the condition affects 1 in 2 men and more than 1 in 3 women, and hypertension alone caused over 4,000 deaths among AANHPI adults in 2023.
“Heart health is intensely personal and scientific research shows us that one of the most important things you can do to be heart healthy is to manage your blood pressure,” said Dr. Justin Lee, volunteer board member of the American Heart Association Greater Bay Area and general cardiologist at Stanford University. “When you have high blood pressure, it's not just a number on a chart - it's your future at stake and your ability to stay present for the people you love. The good news is: managing your blood pressure is not hard. The first step is awareness.”
The association emphasizes the importance of knowing your blood pressure numbers. Normal blood pressure is defined as systolic pressure less than 120 mm Hg and diastolic pressure less than 80 mm Hg. Individuals are encouraged to get their blood pressure checked regularly, using a home blood pressure monitor or a kiosk at a local pharmacy. If systolic pressure exceeds 180 or diastolic exceeds 120, it could be life-threatening, and immediate medical attention is necessary.
The American Heart Association promotes Life's Essential 8, a set of science-backed healthy habits: eating smart, being active, quitting tobacco and nicotine, sleeping well, managing weight, controlling blood pressure, managing cholesterol, and managing blood sugar. These lifestyle changes are the first step to managing blood pressure, but for some, medications may also be needed.
New research indicates that high blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the brain, potentially leading to memory problems and dementia. The association also stresses the importance of managing blood pressure before, during, and after pregnancy, as high blood pressure during pregnancy can lead to serious complications and increase future heart risks.
Dr. Lee encourages personalized care: “Don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor. They have new tools, like the American Heart Association’s PREVENT risk calculator, to create a personalized plan for you.” The calculator estimates an individual's risk of heart attack or stroke over the next 10 to 30 years, allowing for tailored treatment plans.
For more information, visit heart.org.
