Nearly half of American adults have heart problems

THURSDAY, Jan. 31, 2019 (HealthDay News) – Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure, heart disease or a history of stroke, according to a new report.

This figure is up sharply from what the American Heart Association (AHA) released last year – mainly because of changes in the definition of hypertension. In 2017, the guidelines lowered the threshold to 130/80 mm Hg, down from 140/90 mm Hg used for a long time.

As a result, many more Americans are now entering the category of high blood pressure.

According to the new report, in 2016, approximately 48% of American adults had some form of cardiovascular disease, 9% of whom had heart disease or were living with the effects of stroke. The rest had high blood pressure.

Dr. Emelia Benjamin led the committee that wrote the report, published online January 31 in the AHA journal. circulation.

She said that there was no doubt that high blood pressure was very prevalent in the United States: the average American has about 90% chance of developing the disease during his lifetime.

But many steps can be taken to delay or prevent hypertension, heart disease and stroke, said Benjamin, a professor at the Boston University School of Medicine.

"Stop smoking, eat healthier, exercise, control your cholesterol and your blood sugar," said Benjamin.

With regard to the exercise, she said: "I am not talking about the training for the Boston Marathon.You can stop taking the elevator and use the stairs.You can park your car at the furthest point of the store. "

Focusing on simple small steps can make lifestyle changes more achievable, Benjamin advised.

According to the latest statistics, more than 121 million Americans were suffering from cardiovascular disease in 2016. This represents an increase from 92 million in last year's report. AHA.

The prevalence of this condition is a major concern, according to Dr. Ivor Benjamin, volunteer chair of the AHA.

"As one of the most common and most dangerous risk factors for heart disease and stroke, this hypertensive high blood pressure can not be discounted from the equation of our disease control. cardiovascular diseases, "he said in a statement.