Facebook Twitter Email
THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2003

The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute revised blood pressure guidelines, lowering the level of what is considered "normal" blood pressure.

An estimated 45 million Americans whose blood pressure is at least 120 over 80 are at increased risk of stroke, heart failure and kidney disease, according to health officials. This condition is called "prehypertension."

Stroke deaths in Indian Country are high in Alaska and Plains states. High blood pressure also contributes to diabetes, which affects American Indians and Alaska Natives at extremely high rates.

Get the Story:
Blood Pressure Warning Expanded (The Washington Post 5/15)
Guidelines lower safe blood-pressure levels (AP 5/15)
U.S. Lowers 'Normal' Levels for Blood Pressure Readings (The New York Times 5/15)
Username: indianzcom, Password: indianzcom

Relevant Links:
National High Blood Pressure Education Program - http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/guidelines/hypertension/index.htm
National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute - http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov

Related Stories:
Diabetes rates explode in Indian Country (05/07)
CDC atlas documents disparity in stroke deaths (02/21)