High blood pressure also known as Hypertension affects about one in four adults. High blood pressure is dangerous because it forces the heart to work harder and contributes to hardening of the arteries. It also increases the risk for heart disease the number one killer of adult men and women and stroke the third leading cause of death in men and women in the United States. Everyone can take steps to control their blood pressure.

A systolic blood pressure of less than 120 and a diastolic blood pressure of less than 80 mm HG (Millimeters of mercury) are considered optimal. Systolic blood pressure of 140 or higher or diastolic blood pressures of 90 or higher mm HG are high. Both the systolic and diastolic readings are important. The systolic blood pressure is the top number and gives the most accurate diagnosis of high blood pressure for those middle aged or older. For adults the systolic pressure increases with age while the diastolic increases until about age 55 and then declines. A high systolic pressure caused blood vessels to stiffen and can lead to cardiovascular disease and damage kidneys and other organs. Many older adults have only a high systolic pressure known as an "isolated systolic hypertension" or ISH.

Certain behaviors or risk factors can increase your likelihood of developing hypertension.

Factors that you have no control over but increase your chances of developing hypertension are:

• Age
  
• Family History of early heart disease
  
• Race especially among African Americans

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Risk factors that you do have some control over include:

• High blood cholesterol
  
• Cigarette smoking
  
• Diabetes
  
• Overweight
  
• Physical Activity

You can take steps to prevent and control high blood pressure by:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
  
• If you drink alcohol do so in moderation
  
• Follow a healthy eating plan that is low in sodium and high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
  
• If your doctor has prescribed blood pressure medicine take it as directed.
  
• Being physically active most days of the week for 30 or more minutes. You can break these down into three 10-minute sessions a day.

Because blood pressure changes and is affected by many factors, the test should be repeated on different days to confirm a reading of high blood pressure. Consult with your physician or health care provider for additional information about lifestyle changes or medication to control your high blood pressure.