Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 17, 2026
07:51
Hydra, a Computer-Based Platform for Aiding Clinicians in Cardiovascular Analysis and Diagnosis
Published on: September 26, 2018
Prehypertension as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases
M Fareed K Suri1, Adnan I Qureshi
1Cerebrovascular Program, Division of Epidemiology and Outcomes Research, Zeenat Qureshi Stroke Research Center, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA.
The Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing
|February 13, 2007
Summary
New guidelines define "prehypertension" for blood pressure (BP) between 120-139/85-89 mm Hg. This stage indicates increased cardiovascular disease risk and can be managed through lifestyle changes to prevent hypertension.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Previously, systolic blood pressure (BP) <140 mm Hg and diastolic BP <90 mm Hg were considered normal.
- Emerging evidence linked high-normal BP to increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the "prehypertension" BP category.
- To highlight prehypertension as a risk factor for CVD and a precursor to hypertension.
Main Methods:
- Review of blood pressure guidelines and risk factors.
- Definition of the "prehypertension" category based on systolic and diastolic BP ranges.
Main Results:
- The "prehypertension" category was defined for BP readings of 120-139 mm Hg (systolic) and 85-89 mm Hg (diastolic).
- This category signifies a continuum towards hypertension and is associated with elevated CVD risk.
Conclusions:
- Prehypertension is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
- Lifestyle modifications can delay or prevent the progression from prehypertension to hypertension.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Hypertension I: Introduction
Hypertension is a widespread, long-term medical condition where blood pressure in the arteries remains elevated. It is characterized by systolic blood pressure readings of 130 mm Hg or above or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) readings of 80 mm Hg or higher. Unmanaged hypertension poses significant health risks, making the distinction between primary (or essential) hypertension and secondary hypertension crucial, as their management and implications vary.Primary HypertensionPrimary hypertension,...
01:18Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure
Hypertension, the most common cardiovascular disease, is diagnosed through repeated measurements of elevated blood pressure. Its risks, including damage to the kidney, heart, and brain, are directly proportional to blood pressure levels. Starting from 115/75 mm Hg, the risk of cardiovascular disease doubles with each increment of 20/10 mm Hg. The diagnosis relies on blood pressure measurements, not on patient symptoms, as hypertension is often asymptomatic until end-organ damage is imminent or...
01:29Hypertension II: Pathophysiology
Hypertension is a chronic condition in which the blood's force against artery walls is excessively high, posing risks such as heart disease. The condition's underlying mechanisms involve complex interactions among the cardiovascular, kidney, and autonomic nervous systems.Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS): This system significantly influences blood pressure regulation. When blood pressure decreases, the kidneys secrete renin. This enzyme transforms angiotensinogen, a plasma protein,...
01:30Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Hypertension is asymptomatic and also referred to as the "silent killer" until it progresses to a severe stage or causes target organ disease. Patients may experience symptoms stemming from the strain on blood vessels and tissues in various organs or the heart's increased workload.Physical exams might show no abnormalities other than high blood pressure. Signs of vascular damage, when present, correspond to the organs supplied by the affected vessels, leading to target organ damage. For...
01:30Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): An Overview with Scientific InsightsCoronary Artery Disease (CAD), often referred to as C-A-D, is a prevalent blood vessel disorder classified under the broader category of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a pathological process characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques. These plaques are composed of cholesterol, fatty substances, inflammatory cells, calcium, and fibrin, reducing blood flow to...
01:30Alterations in Blood Pressure
Alterations in blood pressure, such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and hypotension (low blood pressure), significantly affect human health. Understanding these conditions' classifications, causes, and symptoms is essential for effective management and treatment.
Hypertension (High blood pressure)
Hypertension occurs when blood pressure readings consistently exceed the normal range. It is diagnosed when systolic blood pressure (the top number, indicating pressure while the heart beats)...
Hypertension (High blood pressure)
Hypertension occurs when blood pressure readings consistently exceed the normal range. It is diagnosed when systolic blood pressure (the top number, indicating pressure while the heart beats)...