From the Guidelines
Normal blood pressure is defined as a systolic pressure of less than 120 mmHg and a diastolic pressure of less than 80 mmHg. This definition is based on the most recent guidelines from the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association, as outlined in the study published in 2020 1. The study highlights the importance of blood pressure categories, including normal, elevated, stage 1 hypertension, and stage 2 hypertension, and emphasizes the need for confirmation of blood pressure readings on at least two separate occasions.
Key points to consider when evaluating blood pressure include:
- The classification of hypertension, which has been updated to reflect the latest research and guidelines
- The importance of out-of-office blood pressure readings, such as home or ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, to confirm office readings
- The need to consider the highest systolic or diastolic blood pressure category when classifying an individual's blood pressure
In contrast to earlier guidelines, the 2020 study does not use the term "prehypertension" and instead categorizes blood pressure as normal, elevated, or stage 1 or 2 hypertension. This change reflects the evolving understanding of blood pressure and its relationship to cardiovascular risk. Other studies, such as those published in 2007 1 and 2006 1, provide additional context and support for the definition of normal blood pressure, but the 2020 study is the most recent and authoritative source on this topic.
From the Research
Definition of Normal Blood Pressure
- Normal blood pressure is typically defined as a systolic blood pressure (SBP) of less than 130 mmHg and a diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of less than 80 mmHg 2
- The American Heart Association recommends that adults aim for a blood pressure of less than 130/80 mmHg 2
Blood Pressure Targets
- For adults under 65 years, the target blood pressure is less than 130/80 mmHg 2
- For adults 65 years and older, the target systolic blood pressure is less than 130 mmHg 2
- The goal of blood pressure treatment is to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events, such as coronary heart disease, heart failure, and stroke 2
Comparison of Antihypertensive Therapies
- Different antihypertensive therapies, such as amlodipine, valsartan, lisinopril, and hydrochlorothiazide, have been shown to be effective in reducing blood pressure 3, 4, 5, 6
- Combination therapies, such as amlodipine plus valsartan or lisinopril plus hydrochlorothiazide, can be effective in achieving blood pressure goals 3, 4
- The choice of antihypertensive therapy should be based on individual patient characteristics and medical history 2, 6