New blood pressure classification

In 2017, the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC) introduced a new blood pressure classification system, which is based on the average of two or more blood pressure readings taken at different times. The new classification system is as follows:

Normal Blood Pressure:

• Less than 120/80 mmHg

Elevated Blood Pressure:

• 120-129/80 mmHg

Stage 1 Hypertension:

• 130-139/80-89 mmHg

Stage 2 Hypertension:

• 140 or higher/90 or higher mmHg

Hypertensive Crisis:

• Blood pressure greater than 180/120 mmHg

The new classification system is designed to better identify individuals who are at risk for cardiovascular disease and to provide more accurate guidance for treatment. Here's a brief summary of the changes:

• The new system eliminates the previous categories of "prehypertension" and "hypertension" and replaces them with "elevated blood pressure" and "stage 1 hypertension."
• The new system also introduces a new category of "hypertensive crisis," which is defined as a blood pressure greater than 180/120 mmHg.
• The new system emphasizes the importance of taking multiple blood pressure readings and averaging them to get an accurate reading.

It's worth noting that the new classification system is not a replacement for regular blood pressure checks, but rather a tool to help healthcare providers better understand and manage blood pressure.