If you have high blood pressure by this age

High blood pressure can increase your risk of heart disease. But if you have the condition at a young age, your chances may be higher.

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Researchers from Duke University recently conducted a study, published in JAMA, to explore hypertension in younger adults based on new blood pressure levels by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association.

In 2017, the system of normal blood pressure as 120 or lower systolic blood pressure over 80 diastolic or less, elevated blood pressure as 120-129 over than 80, stage 1 hypertension as 130-139 over 80-89 and stage 2 hypertension as 140 or greater over 90 or greater.

For the assessment, they examined more than 4,800 adults who had blood pressure measurements taken before age 40. About half of the participants were African-American, and 55 percent were women. The scientists then categorized the subjects into the fortified world and followed them for about 19 years.

After analyzing the results, they were more likely to be at risk for cardiovascular disease than for heart attack or stroke, compared to normal blood pressure. In fact, higher blood pressure has been associated with up to 3.5 times greater risk of heart disease and strokes.

"This is a first step in elevated blood pressure, as defined by the new criteria," Yuichiro Yano, lead author, said: "Although this is a first step in an observational study, it demonstrates that the new blood pressure guidelines are helpful in identifying those who might be at risk for cardiovascular events. "

The scientists now hope to continue their investigations to confirm their findings and encourage health care providers.

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