1 in 3 Adults Has High Blood Pressure — Raise Awareness Against the Silent Threat
Don’t Just Measure Your Blood Pressure—Understand It.
Globally, 1 in 3 adults is living with high blood pressure, and nearly 50% of them are unaware of it. This silent condition, when left undetected, significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney damage, and even dementia.
The good news? Early screening, accurate measurements, and a holistic management approach can dramatically reduce these risks.
At LaraHealth, we go beyond numbers—we listen, assess, and deliver personalized, science-based solutions for lasting cardiovascular wellness.
What Is Hypertension?
According to the 2024 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Guidelines:
- Normal Blood Pressure: <120/80 mmHg
- Elevated Blood Pressure: 120–139 / 70–89 mmHg
- Hypertension: ≥140/90 mmHg
The American Heart Association (AHA) classifies ≥130/80 mmHg as hypertension and emphasizes that lowering blood pressure below this threshold significantly reduces cardiovascular risk.
Why Is It So Important?
- Heart Attack & Stroke Risk: High pressure damages arterial walls.
- Kidney Damage & Vision Loss: Vascular health is central to organ function.
- Increased Risk Post-Menopause: Estrogen’s protective effect declines, making blood pressure harder to regulate.
- Silent Progression: Hypertension often presents no symptoms, earning it the name “the silent killer.”
Accurate Monitoring = Informed Decisions
ESC 2024 recommends home or ambulatory 24-hour blood pressure monitoring (ABPM/HBPM) over in-office readings for reliable diagnosis.
At LaraHealth, we utilize smart BP monitors, mobile tracking apps, and data analytics platforms to continuously monitor patients’ blood pressure and assess their cardiovascular risk using evidence-based algorithms.
When Should Treatment Begin?
- For high-risk individuals (e.g., those with diabetes or cardiovascular disease), AHA recommends initiating treatment at ≥130/80 mmHg.
- ESC advises targeting systolic BP between 120–129 mmHg, emphasizing a personalized approach based on age, comorbidities, and individual tolerance.
Evidence-Based Ways to Lower Blood Pressure
Backed by ESC, AHA, and the Cleveland Clinic:
- Reduce sodium intake: Less than 5 grams/day
- Increase potassium-rich foods: Fresh vegetables, fruits, potassium-enriched salts
- Engage in physical activity: At least 150 minutes/week of moderate exercise
- Achieve and maintain a healthy weight
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol
- Medication when necessary: Always tailored to individual needs
The LaraHealth Approach: A Holistic View of Hypertension
At LaraHealth, we don’t just measure blood pressure—we evaluate the entire biological system:
- Genetic risk profiling & family history
- Gut microbiome health and vascular function
- Hormonal balance, including menopause and thyroid function
- Pregnancy-specific BP monitoring & preeclampsia risk management
- Drug and supplement interactions
We create personalized, evidence-based care plans for every individual.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?
Although often asymptomatic, warning signs may include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nosebleeds
- Palpitations
- Shortness of breath
- Blurred vision
- Frequent urination, especially at night
How should blood pressure be measured correctly?
- No caffeine, smoking, or exercise 30 minutes prior
- Sit with back supported and arm at heart level
- Take 3 readings, discard the first, and average the last two
- Track daily/weekly readings for medical decision-making
At LaraHealth, we follow scientific protocols to ensure measurement accuracy.
Is it normal to be unaware of having hypertension?
Yes. Nearly 50% of people with hypertension are undiagnosed, which highlights the importance of regular screenings.
Why does blood pressure rise after menopause?
Estrogen, a natural vasodilator, declines after menopause, reducing vascular protection and increasing BP levels. Blood pressure monitoring becomes more critical during this transition.
Does blood pressure drop during pregnancy?
Yes. During the first and second trimesters, vascular dilation often leads to a drop in BP. However, in some pregnancies, BP may rise and increase the risk of preeclampsia, which requires close monitoring.
My blood pressure fluctuates—is this a concern?
Yes. This could indicate “masked hypertension.” If BP readings are higher outside the clinic, 24-hour ambulatory monitoring (ABPM) is recommended.
Hypertension Is Not Just a Number
It is a silent yet powerful risk factor that affects not only heart health but also brain function, hormonal balance, and pregnancy outcomes.
At LaraHealth, we don’t just measure your blood pressure—we protect your health through comprehensive, personalized solutions.
