From the Guidelines
The mean arterial pressure (MAP) for a blood pressure of 143/95 is 111 mmHg, indicating elevated mean arterial pressure, which may increase the risk for cardiovascular complications and end-organ damage over time. To calculate MAP, I used the formula: MAP = [(2 × diastolic pressure) + systolic pressure] ÷ 3, as supported by the principles outlined in the 2017 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association hypertension guideline 1. Substituting the values, MAP = [(2 × 95) + 143] ÷ 3 = [190 + 143] ÷ 3 = 333 ÷ 3 = 111 mmHg. This calculation is important because MAP represents the average pressure driving blood through the systemic circulation during the cardiac cycle, rather than just the peak (systolic) or trough (diastolic) pressures. Some key points to consider when evaluating blood pressure include:
- The classification of blood pressure and diagnosis of hypertension, as outlined in the 2017 guideline, which defines stage 2 hypertension as an average systolic BP of at least 140 mm Hg or an average diastolic BP of at least 90 mm Hg 1.
- The importance of calculating MAP, as it provides a more comprehensive understanding of the pressure driving blood through the systemic circulation.
- The potential risks associated with sustained MAP values above 100 mmHg, including increased risk for cardiovascular complications and end-organ damage over time. Given the blood pressure reading of 143/95, which falls into the category of stage 2 hypertension according to the 2017 guideline 1, it is essential to monitor and manage blood pressure to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications and end-organ damage.
From the Research
Calculating Mean Arterial Pressure
To calculate the mean arterial pressure (MAP), we use the following formula: MAP = (2 * diastolic blood pressure + systolic blood pressure) / 3
Given Blood Pressure Values
- Systolic blood pressure: 143 mmHg
- Diastolic blood pressure: 95 mmHg
Calculation
MAP = (2 * 95 + 143) / 3 MAP = (190 + 143) / 3 MAP = 333 / 3 MAP = 111 mmHg