Study Finds Only 14% of Online Blood Pressure Images Show Correct Measurement Technique

Only 14% of online stock images showing blood pressure measurement follow clinical guidelines, according to new research published in Hypertension, an American Heart Association journal. The study analyzed over 1,100 images from major stock photo websites and found that inaccurate depictions could contribute to improper blood pressure monitoring both at home and in clinical settings.

The analysis revealed significant deviations from the 2023 International Consensus on Standardized Clinic Blood Pressure Measurement guidelines. Common errors included lack of back support (73%), forearm not resting on a flat surface (55%), use of manual instead of electronic devices (52%), feet dangling rather than flat on the floor (36%), and talking during measurement by either healthcare professionals (23%) or patients (18%). Additional issues included mid-arm not at heart level (19%), crossed legs (13%), improper sitting position (5%), and cuff placement over clothing (12%).

Notably, images depicting home blood pressure monitoring were approximately three times more accurate than those showing measurements in physician offices or healthcare facilities. Home monitoring images showed 25% accuracy compared to only 8% accuracy in clinical setting images. Images showing blood pressure measured by patients or non-professionals were six times more likely to demonstrate proper technique compared to those showing healthcare professionals taking measurements.

Lead author Alta Schutte, Ph.D., professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of New South Wales Sydney, expressed concern about the findings. "We expected that about 50% of images would be accurate, however, our findings were worse than expected," Schutte said. "Because people tend to remember images better than words — a phenomenon known as the picture-superiority effect — inaccurate visuals could have serious public health consequences."

The study's implications are significant given that nearly half of all U.S. adults have high blood pressure, according to American Heart Association statistics. Daniel Jones, M.D., chair of the American Heart Association's 2025 high blood pressure guideline writing committee, emphasized the importance of accurate imagery. "This study highlights the importance of using accurate images to demonstrate the proper technique for measuring blood pressure," Jones said. "Home blood pressure monitoring is recommended for patients to help confirm an office diagnosis of high blood pressure and to monitor, track progress and tailor care as part of an integrated care plan."

Researchers urge healthcare organizations, media outlets, stock photo creators, and web developers to review their online images to ensure they demonstrate proper blood pressure measurement techniques. The American Heart Association provides resources to help people learn correct measurement methods, which is crucial given the potential for inaccurate readings to lead to improper treatment decisions when shared with healthcare teams.