Both Blood Pressure Numbers Are Key Indicators of Heart Health

Understanding the significance of both blood pressure readings is crucial for assessing heart health. Blood pressure measurements, typically expressed as two numbers—such as 120/80—reflect the force of blood against arterial walls during and between heartbeats. The first, systolic pressure, indicates the pressure when the heart contracts, while the second, diastolic pressure, shows the pressure when the heart relaxes. Historically, medical focus has concentrated more on systolic pressure as a predictor of cardiovascular risk, often overlooking diastolic values. However, recent research from Kaiser Permanente analyzing over 36 million blood pressure measurements from 1.3 million adults over nearly a decade emphasizes the importance of both figures. The study found that elevated levels in either systolic or diastolic pressure are associated with increased risks of heart disease and stroke. Remarkably, the findings held true across different blood pressure thresholds, whether using the traditional cutoff of 140/90 mm Hg or the newer guideline of 130/80 mm Hg. This underscores the need for healthcare providers to evaluate both readings comprehensively, as each provides valuable insig...