American Heart Association Urges AANHPI Communities to Manage High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is the number one preventable risk factor for heart disease and stroke in the United States, and it disproportionately affects Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. Despite its prevalence, many individuals are unaware they have the condition. The American Heart Association is sharing essential information and tips to help manage blood pressure, starting with simple lifestyle changes.

Currently, approximately 125.9 million (47.3%) of all U.S. adults are living with high blood pressure, an increase from previous years. Only about 1 in 4 adults (25.6%) have it under control. Within the AANHPI community, high blood pressure affects 1 in 2 men and more than 1 in 3 women. Hypertension alone was responsible for more than 4,000 deaths among AANHPI adults in the U.S. in 2023, equivalent to the average passenger capacity of about 10 jumbo jets. Controlling blood pressure is one of the most effective, evidence-based ways to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

“Heart health is intensely personal, and scientific research shows us that one of the most important things you can do to be heart healthy is to manage your blood pressure,” said Justin Lee, M.D., volunteer board member of the American Heart Association Greater Bay Area and general cardiologist at Stanford University. “When you have high blood pressure, it's not just a number on a chart—it's your future at stake and your ability to stay present for the people you love. The good news is: managing your blood pressure is not hard. The first step is awareness.”

Regular blood pressure checks are crucial. Individuals can monitor their numbers at home using a home blood pressure monitor or at a kiosk at a local pharmacy. According to the American Heart Association, normal blood pressure is systolic (top number) less than 120 and diastolic (bottom number) less than 80. A single high reading is not usually cause for concern, but consistently high readings should prompt a conversation with a clinician. Extremely high readings—systolic higher than 180 and/or diastolic higher than 120—can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention, especially if accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness, weakness, change in vision, or difficulty speaking.

Lifestyle changes are the first step to managing blood pressure. The American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8 outlines key habits: eat smart, be active, quit tobacco and nicotine, sleep well, manage weight, manage blood pressure, manage cholesterol, and manage blood sugar. For those who still cannot control their blood pressure with lifestyle changes, safe and effective medications are available. The My Life Check calculator offers personalized tips to set health goals.

New research confirms that high blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the brain, leading to memory problems and dementia. Managing blood pressure is essential for protecting cognitive health. For women, controlling blood pressure before, during, and after pregnancy is critical, as high blood pressure during pregnancy can lead to serious complications and increase future heart risks.

Personalized care is key. The American Heart Association’s PREVENT risk calculator helps clinicians estimate a patient’s risk of heart attack or stroke over the next 10 to 30 years, allowing for tailored treatment plans. Staying informed and taking action can help individuals and their loved ones live longer, healthier lives. For more information, visit heart.org.