Hypertension

Hypertension (commonly called high blood pressure) occurs when the force of blood pushing against artery walls is consistently too high. A reading of 130/80 mmHg or higher is considered hypertension by current American Heart Association guidelines.

Black Americans have the highest rates of hypertension of any racial group in the United States, and tend to develop it earlier in life with more severe complications. Approximately 55% of Black adults have hypertension, compared to 46% of white adults.

Common misconceptions: Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because it typically causes no symptoms until serious complications arise. Many people believe they would feel it if their blood pressure were dangerously high. That is generally not true.

Treatment note: Research shows Black patients tend to respond better to calcium channel blockers and thiazide diuretics than to ACE inhibitors as first-line therapy. Always discuss medication options with your clinician.