New blood pressure guidelines were published in May of 2007 by the American Heart Association (AHA). After reviewing recent studies the doctors at the AHA determined that many patients who previously thought they had well controlled blood pressure need to lower it even further.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is defined as a blood pressure of 140/90 or higher. This number was lowered to 130/80 if you have diabetes or long-standing kidney disease (chronic renal insufficiency). The new guidelines add several groups of patients who should strive for the lower blood pressure.
Target Blood Pressure of <130/80
- Diabetes
- Chronic renal insufficiency (CRI)
- Coronary artery disease (CAD)
- Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)
- Risk of coronary artery disease of >10% in the near future
The guidelines recommend even lower blood pressure if you have coronary artery disease and angina, have had a heart attack or worsening chest pain, and have heart failure.
Target Blood Pressure of <120/80
- Coronary artery disease with angina
- Worsening chest pain or chest pain at rest
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
