What is the threshold for defining hypertension in adults?

The threshold for defining hypertension in adults is generally considered to be 130/80 mmHg according to the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) guidelines established in 2017, where they moved away from the traditional threshold of 140/90 mmHg. This threshold encompasses stage 1 hypertension, which is classified as blood pressure readings ranging from 130-139 systolic or 80-89 diastolic.

In the context of the answer provided, 140/90 mmHg is historically significant as it represents the point where blood pressure is labeled as stage 1 hypertension in older guidelines. However, in current practice and guidelines, blood pressure should be categorized with a more sensitive threshold to identify individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease at an earlier stage, hence the identification of stage 1 hypertension starting at 130/80 mmHg and higher.

An important aspect is that using a higher threshold like 140/90 mmHg may lead to underdiagnosing patients who could benefit from earlier intervention. Awareness and proper classification of blood pressure are crucial for prevention and management strategies for cardiovascular health.